Concerns about climate change have inspired a growing trend of environmentalism, especially among younger generations. Taking small steps is often the best way to get started when you are looking to decrease your environmental impact. Adopt a few simple strategies that can make a big difference, and build on them as you become more comfortable and confident in your new eco-friendly ways. 

1. Start Composting Scraps

This is a simple way to cut down on waste which makes it an ideal way to get started boosting your environmental practices. Most fruits and vegetable peels, shredded papers and organic yard waste can be safely composted. There are different methods for composting, including these popular options:

• Vermicomposting with a worm bin

• Countertop containers with filters

• Indoor or outdoor tumblers

• Premade wooden, plastic, or metal bins

• A natural pile or pit for compostable scraps

If you want to compost meat and dairy products, you will need to use a method that generates a lot of heat. There are specialized units that use a microbial additive that helps turn those harder-to-break down foods into safe compost. Always follow accepted safety practices, especially if you plan to use your finished product into food-producing garden beds. 

2. Embrace Alternative Fuels

There are lots of ways you can turn your attention away from fossil fuels and embrace renewable energy sources. More homeowners are choosing to go solar and install rooftop panel systems. You can take it a step further and add battery storage so you won't have to rely on an electric utility at all. Wind turbines are another option that has gained traction recently. Geothermal heating and cooling systems can significantly lower your energy use and utility bills. 

Of course, you don't have to convert your home's whole power system to see the benefits of alternative fuels. Solar lighting is a practical and easy way to add ambiance and increase safety around your yard without the hassle of running electrical connections. Portable chargers that rely on the sun to power tech devices are also a great idea, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Hybrid and all-electric vehicles are another great option if you are looking to buy a new one. 

3. Upgrade Your Lighting

If you are searching for a slightly less extensive solution, look no further than your light fixtures. Swapping out old incandescent bulbs for new, energy-efficient LED ones will save you money and lower your energy usage. According to the Department of Energy, LED bulbs use about 75% less power than incandescents to operate, and they can last up to 25 times longer before they lose brightness. 

4. Cut Back on Paper Products

Modern dependence on paper products is a relatively new phenomenon. And, it is one with significant environmental impacts. Those paper goods often end p in landfills where, due to the anaerobic conditions, they take an unnaturally long time to decompose. While there are some paper goods you'll probably want to stick with (we're looking at you, TP), others can easily be replaced by cloth versions. 

The kitchen is a good place to start reducing paper goods. Find a suitable alternative to paper towels and swap them out. See if you notice a difference in the amount of trash you generate over the course of a week or two. Asking everyone to use cloth napkins at meals is another simple swap. Put a "wet bag" under the kitchen sink to catch these dirty items, then toss them all into the wash once a week. 

5. Adjust Your Temperatures

Another simple strategy for boosting your environmental friendliness is to rethink temperatures in and around your home. Adjusting your thermostat by ten degrees for eight hours a day can lead to a significant reduction in energy use. A programmable or wi-fi-enabled unit can make it easy to adjust the temperature when you aren't home to notice. While you are looking at temperatures, make sure your water heater is set below 120 degrees. This will ensure that you aren't wasting energy to overheat water and that no one gets scalded.  

Taking care of the environment is a painless process; it can even be fun if you get creative along the way. Take small steps as you start to increase your energy efficiency and reduce your environmental impact. As you adjust to those changes, add in new ones until you find a level you are comfortable with.