We all want to be just a little bit kinder to the environment, but the decision to make changes can be really difficult when you don’t know where to start. The great thing about sustainability, is that you can start slow. You don’t have to jump into it and completely change your lifestyle overnight. You can make small and simple changes, slowly, as you learn what works for you! Here are a few simple changes to help you be more sustainable.

Switch to reusable grocery bags

This is such a small change but it can be a lot more difficult than it seems! Reusable grocery canvas bags are not expensive, and can make all of the difference when you’re shopping. Suddenly, all of your groceries fit into 4 bags, rather than the previous 20 plastic bags you were using before. What is hard about this transition, is that it can be difficult to remember to put your reusable bags back into your car before your next grocery trip. If you ever do have to use plastic bags, make sure to bring them back to the store to recycle them. Many stores, like Walmart, have a bin by the entrance to recycle all plastic bags. We recommend buying double the amount of canvas bags than you actually need to do your shopping with, and leave half in the car, so you always have bags to use.

Use wool balls instead of dryer sheets

Dryer sheets probably aren’t the most harmful thing in your home, but there is no way to recycle them. Wool balls work just as well, last longer than a package of dryer sheets do, and they’re biodegradable! So when you’re done, you can add them to your compost heap, or even just throw them away, knowing they will biodegrade.

Make your coffee at home

Not only will making coffee at home reduce the amount of to-go containers you use, but it is also considerably less expensive and will save you a lot of money! Most coffee to go containers are recyclable, as long as you clean them out first. But when you are on the go, it’s hard to remember to do this! If you would still rather grab your coffee while you’re out, invest in a reusable mug or thermos you can bring along. Most coffee shops will give you a discount for bringing your own container!