At this point, there is no debate when it comes to global climate change. The planet and the environment are changing due to human involvement. According to NASA, the planet’s average surface temperature has risen about 2.0 degrees Fahrenheit since the late 19th century and the global sea level has risen about 8 inches in the last century. While those many not seem like drastic numbers, they certainly are. Within the last century, specifically since the Industrial Revolution, the planet has changed drastically and it’s all because of us. Take some time out of your busy life and take these steps to help the environment – our planet will thank you. You may even save a little money too.

Quit Smoking
It’s 2017 – no one should be smoking especially with the vast amounts of research linking tobacco usage to cancer. But anyway, some people still do and they should stop – not only for themselves but for the environment. Smoking is a huge cause of air pollution. You’re killing yourself, killing people around you due to second hand smoking and now you’re killing the environment. Just do it for the planet.

Say No to Plastic
While everyone has seen those heart wrenching Facebook videos featuring poor sea turtles who have mistakenly eaten a plastic bag and are now on the verge of dying, the concern typically stops there. All forms of plastic – whether it’s in the shape of a bag, bottle or container – have negative effects on the environment. With overcrowded landfills, the plastic drifts into our Earth’s ecosystems and disrupts them. Plastic is the enemy so spend a few extra bucks on those reusable shopping bags and that refillable water bottle. And if you can’t fully cut plastic out of your life, always recycle. At least it’s a first step.

Use Environmentally Friendly Products
Finally, it’s laundry day. You’ve been waiting all week to wash your favorite pair of sweatpants so they can smell of mountain breeze once again. While you’re happy about getting all of your wash finished, it’s very likely that the bargain detergent you are using is hurting the environment by releasing toxins into the water. Environmentally friendly products are available in regular stores and don’t even cost that much more. You’re on a budget, I know, but this is important.

Buy Only as Much as You’ll Eat
Human beings, specifically ones living in the United States, are very wasteful. We buy too many unnecessary products at the grocery store and are given ridiculously huge portions at restaurants. This whole concept of paying less to have more, like at places such as Costco or BJs, can certainly be a beneficial one – but really only if you’re feeding a family of 10. Instead of having to throw out half of your fridge at the end of the month, only buy what you know you’re going to eat. This will also save you money. Sounds like a win-win situation to me.

Plant a Tree
Trees filter the air we breathe and also create oxygen. Planting a tree is a great way to compensate for that time you let your car idle for 25 minutes while you were picking up dinner on pizza Friday. It’s also a great way to spend time outside and be your own personal landscaper.

Use Public Transportation
Yes, public transportation does cause pollution. But if more people opted to take the train or bus instead of driving their own gas guzzling cars to work every day, everyone’s individual carbon footprint could be significantly reduced. And with monthly transit passes, it will be cheaper than buying gas every week. We need to keep our air clean – remember, it’s what keeps us alive.

Don’t Let Water Run When You’re Not Using It
This is something that I believe most people are guilty of – leaving the water running while brushing their teeth. According to the NY Department of Natural Resources, this simple task can save you about three gallons of water per day. So just shut it off. Another situation where you can save the environment and keep a little more money in your pocket.

Buy Fresh and Local Produce
On average, small businesses put out less toxins and waste than big manufacturers. This means less trash in our landfills, cleaner water and a smaller carbon footprint. Plus, it’s always best to support your local businesses. Supporting local business usually means that you have a shorter travel time, thus saving on gas and minimizing pollution.

We only have one planet and the time to make a difference is now.