You don’t need to save the entire planet right away when you want to start living more sustainably. This can start with small decisions and changes in your life. Whether you reduce the number of one-time-use items that you use, replace certain products or evaluate the companies that you are supporting, you can make a difference step by step with each choice that you make. If you are looking to live a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, here are a few items that are sure to change your life and support a healthier planet.

1.     Bag it up

If you are using one-time-use plastic bags, this can be an easy area in your life that you can change. By swapping out your plastic bag for a tote bag or another reusable alternative, you can cut down on the waste that you are producing. Whether you bag up your produce in this type of bag or carry your purchased items home in plastic, you are likely collecting a significant amount of waste. Keep a tote bag in your car or in your bag as, so that even if you make a random stop, you are ready. Even if you use one-time-use plastic bags, make sure that you do your part to recycle them.

2.     Drink Sustainably

One-time-use items are not limited to plastic bags. Another area where you can make greener choices is with your drinks. Whether you grab a coffee at your local coffee shop or have disposable water bottles for on the go, you can make an easy change. By switching out these disposable, one-time-use options for a reusable water bottle and a reusable travel mug, you can still enjoy your favorite beverages without having to worry about harming the environment in the process.

3.     Clean up Your Act

Many people rely on the products that they are familiar with just out of habit, and this can often with cleaning products. Many cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds that can evaporate and damage the earth. By swapping these out for greener selections, you can achieve a clean house without causing damage to the environment around you. This can also have the added benefit of reducing the impact on your family, as VOCs can also be harmful to those who inhale them.

4.     Embrace a Greener Beauty

For many makeup wearers, once they find a product that works, they tend to stick with it; however, if you are relying on the tried, your habits may be steering you wrong. Not all beauty standards are sound. Many beauty products allow for the inclusion of less than ideal chemicals and many of these companies can also have a major environmental impact. By learning how to switch to green beauty brands you can reduce the harm to your skin, face and body while reducing the harm to the planet. Keep up your gorgeous look, just make a change so that you can do it in a greener way.

5.     Replace it for Recycled Materials

If you haven’t yet explored greener choices, you may be shocked at the amazing options out there that can benefit the earth while giving you a marvelous commodity. Products are made out of recycled materials today in everything from shoes to phone covers to clothing. Many companies are looking for ways to not just reduce their impact on the world, but some are even looking at how to improve the planet. If you do some research, you likely can find an improved alternative option to live more sustainably.

Making a commitment to the planet can sometimes feel like a daunting and difficult undertaking. It is not always easy to know where to get started; however, by doing a little bit of extra research and swapping the products you are currently using for greener alternatives, you can do your part and help save the planet.