101 climate solutions you can do at home

In the face of a rapidly changing climate, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to make a difference. However, the truth is that impactful change often starts right at home.

While it is true that major corporations and frequent private jet users contribute significantly to fossil fuel emissions and plastic waste, there is immense power in collective action. When individuals make the switch to eco-conscious alternatives, it sends a clear economic signal, redirecting the flow of money towards greener industries, influencing market demand, and driving companies to adopt more eco-friendly practices.

Additionally, for families with children, embracing climate-friendly habits is an opportunity to educate and inspire the next generation. By modeling sustainable living, we can raise environmentally conscious kids who will grow up to value and protect our planet, reducing reliance on the disposable economy.

By making small, thoughtful adjustments to one’s daily habits and choices, everyone can contribute to a brighter and better future. Here are 101 practical climate solutions you can implement at home to reduce your carbon footprint and promote environmental health.

1. Switch to cloth paper towels

Cloth towels can be used multiple times before washing, significantly reducing waste. They are durable, absorbent, and can handle all the same tasks as their disposable counterparts without contributing to deforestation and filling up landfills.

How it helps: If every household in the US replaced just one roll of virgin paper towels with recycled or bamboo paper towels, we’d save 544,000 trees per year.

2. Plant-based trash bags

Opt for biodegradable trash bags made from plant materials. These bags break down quickier than traditional plastic bags, reducing the long-term environmental impact. 

How it helps: Traditional plastic bags can take up to 1,000 years to decompose in landfills.

3. Beeswax food wrap

Use beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap for food storage. Beeswax wraps are reusable, washable, and compostable. They mold to the shape of your food or container, providing an effective and eco-friendly alternative to single-use wrap.

How it helps: The EPA estimated that Americans produced nearly 9 billion pounds of plastic film, bags, and wraps annually. 

4. Make your own cleaner

Create eco-friendly cleaners using every day ingredients like orange peels and vinegar or lemon juice and baking soda. Homemade cleaners are free from harmful chemicals, cost-effective, and often just as effective at removing stains as store-bought options.

How it helps: Using homemade or EPA Safer Choice-certified cleaning products can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, which are often found in conventional cleaners and can contribute to indoor air pollution and potential health risks.

5. Meal planning

Reduce food waste by planning meals and using up leftovers. Meal planning helps you buy only what you need, reducing the likelihood of food spoiling before you use it. Explore how you can meal plan with the planet in mind with the Planetarian Diet.

How it helps: Wasted food accounts for 2.6% of the annual greenhouse gas emissions in the US, which is equivalent to one in seven cars on the road.

6. Participate in Meatless Mondays

The meat industry is a huge contributor to global emissions. If a full vegetarian or vegan lifestyle isn’t for you, you can still reduce your carbon footprint by going meat-free at least one day a week!

How it helps: Global greenhouse gas emissions from animal-based foods (57%) are almost twice those of plant-based foods (29%).

7. Reusable coffee filters

Switch to reusable metal or cloth coffee filters. These filters can be washed and reused many times, eliminating the need for disposable paper filters and reducing waste. They can also enhance the flavor of your coffee by allowing more oils to pass through.

How it helps: It takes about 1.5 million trees to make the 275 billion coffee filters used each year, which is equivalent to 750 million filters used per day. 

8. Compost food waste

Turn your food scraps into nutrient-rich soil instead of throwing them away. Composting not only reduces landfill waste but also enriches the soil with valuable nutrients. If you're unsure how to begin, check out One Earth’s Guide to Composting.

How it helps: When food waste is sent to landfills, it decomposes and produces methane—a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

9. Save your bread 

Bread is one of the most wasted food items. Loaves freeze well, so pop them in the freezer if you're not going to use them right away. This extends the life of your bread and reduces food waste. Sliced bread can be toasted directly from frozen, making it convenient and practical.

How it helps: The average household wastes $1,866 annually on food, and bread is one of the most common items thrown out. 

10. Unplug unused devices

Small kitchen appliances like coffeemakers, food processors, and microwaves are easy to use but not so easy on the power grid. Unplug your devices to prevent phantom electricity from being consumed. This simple step can help reduce your energy bill and environmental footprint.

How it helps: Devices left plugged in but not in use account for about 5-10% of residential electricity consumption.

11. Regrow store-bought produce

Vegetables like green onions, lettuce, bok choy, celery, and many others can be regrown by placing the roots in water. This not only saves money but also reduces the need to buy new produce, cutting down on packaging waste and the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

How it helps: Most of the produce we buy travels an average of 1,500 miles in the US, meaning growing your own food can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation.

12. Don't double wash the dishes

Pick a side, either hand washing or the dishwasher! Modern dishwashers are designed to handle food residue, so skipping the pre-rinse step saves water and energy.

How it helps: Studies show pre-rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher wastes up to 6,000 gallons of water per household annually. 

13. Take the Trash Challenge 

Keep track of how many bags of garbage you throw away in a week. Next week, can you reduce it by just one? The following week two? How low can your household go?!

How it helps: Globally, 2.12 billion tons of waste is produced. If all this waste was put on trucks they would go around the world 24 times.

 14. Shampoo and conditioner bars

Choose solid bars over plastic bottles and pumps. These bars often come in minimal, recyclable packaging and last longer than their liquid counterparts, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.

How it helps: Up to 552 million plastic shampoo bottles are discarded annually in the US. 

15. Upgrade to sustainable toilet paper

Buy toilet paper made from 100% bamboo or recycled fibers. These alternatives feel the same and work just as well as conventional toilet paper, without contributing to deforestation or the destruction of natural habitats.

How it helps: To meet the global demand for toilet paper, 1.9 million trees are cut down each day. 

16. Invest in a bidet

Reduce toilet paper usage with a bidet attachment. Bidets use a fraction of the water that goes into making toilet paper and can significantly cut down on household paper waste.

How it helps: Using a bidet can reduce toilet paper usage by up to 75%. Bidets also use significantly less water—just 1/8 gallon per use compared to the 37 gallons of water required to produce a single roll of toilet paper.

17. Water-saving showerheads

Install low-flow showerheads to conserve water. These showerheads reduce water flow without sacrificing water pressure, helping to save water and lower utility bills.

How it helps: Installing low-flow showerheads can save up to 2,700 gallons of water per person annually. 

18. Organic cotton towels

Use towels made from organic cotton. Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, making it better for the environment and safer for your skin.

How it helps: Organic cotton farming uses up to 91% less water and produces 46% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional cotton. 

19. Bamboo toothbrushes

Replace plastic toothbrushes with biodegradable bamboo ones. Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that naturally decomposes, reducing the amount of plastic waste in landfills and oceans.

How it helps: An estimated 1 billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away annually in the US alone.

20. Eco-friendly toothpaste 

Opt for toothpaste in recyclable or compostable packaging. Look for brands that use natural ingredients, avoiding harmful chemicals that can pollute waterways.

How it helps: Globally, up to 20 billion toothpaste tubes a year are tossed in the trash.

21. Reusable cotton swabs and rounds

Replace disposable cotton swabs and rounds with washable versions. These reusable options are made from sustainable materials and can be used hundreds of times, reducing waste.

How it helps: Every single day, 1.5 billion cotton swabs are produced, and the average American uses 415 cotton swabs every year.

22. Eco-friendly razors

Choose razors with replaceable blades or a safety razor. These alternatives reduce the amount of plastic waste compared to disposable razors, and safety razors can provide a closer shave with fewer irritations.

How it helps: Around 2 billion disposable razors are thrown away each year in the US.

23. Switch to sustainable menstrual products

Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone and can last for years, while bamboo and organic cotton tampons and pads are biodegradable and often free from synthetic chemicals and dyes.

How it helps: According to most estimates, a person who menstruates will use between 5,000 and 15,000 disposable menstrual products over their lifetime. 

24. Use biodegradable makeup sponges

Sustainable makeup applicators made from planet-friendly ingredients reduce waste and pollution. These sponges decompose faster than conventional ones and are often made from natural materials like konjac root.

How it helps: It's estimated that there are over 500 million synthetic sponges discarded each year in the US.

25. Choose clean, eco-conscious makeup brands

Support makeup brands that prioritize sustainability and clean ingredients. Look for companies that use recyclable or biodegradable packaging, avoid harmful chemicals, and source their ingredients responsibly.

How it helps: The global beauty industry produces 120 billion units of packaging each year, much of it non-recyclable.

26. Landscape with native plants

Use native plants that require less water and support local wildlife. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil conditions, making them more resilient and requiring less maintenance. They provide essential habitat and food sources for native birds, insects, and other wildlife, promoting biodiversity.

How it helps: ​Native plants provide food and shelter for 10-15 times more species of birds, butterflies, and other local wildlife than non-native plants.

27. Grow your own vegetables and fruit

Growing produce reduces the reliance on store-bought items. Homegrown fruits and vegetables can be fresher and more nutritious, and gardening can be a rewarding and therapeutic hobby. It also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting produce from farms to stores.

How it helps: Research shows 19% of global food system greenhouse gas emissions are caused by transportation.

28. Swap homegrown produce with neighbors, friends, and family.

Sharing your homegrown fruits, vegetables, and herbs builds a sense of community and reduces food waste. It can introduce you to new gardening techniques and crops, fostering a shared learning experience and mutual support among local gardeners.

How it helps: Sharing homegrown produce can help reduce the 40% of food that is wasted globally.

29. Plant a pollinator garden

Plant flowers that attract and support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Choose a variety of native flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year to provide a continuous food source for pollinators. This helps ensure the health and survival of these essential creatures, which play a crucial role in pollinating many of the foods we eat.

How it helps: Pollinators like bees and butterflies are responsible for pollinating 75% of the world's flowering plants and about 35% of global food crops.

30. Rainwater harvesting

Collect rainwater for garden use. Installing rain barrels or other rainwater collection systems can significantly reduce your reliance on municipal water for irrigation. This not only conserves water but also helps manage stormwater runoff, reducing erosion and pollution in local waterways.

How it helps: A single rain barrel can save up to 1,300 gallons of water during peak summer months.

31. Use compost from your kitchen

Use compost from your kitchen to enrich your soil. Composting food scraps and yard waste creates nutrient-rich compost that can improve soil health, increase water retention, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. Applying compost to your garden supports healthy plant growth and soil microorganisms.

How it helps: Increasing soil organic matter by just 1% can help the soil retain an additional 20,000 gallons of water per acre.

32. Mulching

Organic mulch helps regulate soil temperature, conserves moisture, and suppresses weed growth, reducing the need for watering and chemical herbicides. Using wood chips, straw, or leaves, also adds organic matter to the soil as it decomposes.

How it helps: Organic mulch can reduce soil moisture loss by up to 50%.

33. Participate in No Mow May

Allow your lawn to grow naturally to support local ecosystems. Letting your grass grow longer and allowing wildflowers to bloom creates a more diverse habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. This practice can improve soil health and reduce the need for water and fertilizers.

How it helps: In the US, around 70% of bee species nest in the ground, and aren't quite fully "awake" from their winter sleep until late spring.

34. Use boiling water to remove weeds

For pesky weeds growing between sidewalk cracks, use boiling water instead of harmful herbicides. Boiling water effectively kills weeds without introducing toxic chemicals into your environment, making it a safer option for children, pets, and beneficial insects.

How it helps: Herbicides like glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup®, have been detected in 66 of 70 US streams and rivers in various land-use settings, contributing to water contamination.

35. Manual or electric lawn tools

Use manual or electric rather than gas-powered lawn tools. Electric mowers, trimmers, and blowers produce fewer emissions and are quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. Manual tools, like push mowers, offer an even more eco-friendly alternative, reducing noise pollution and providing a good workout.

How it helps: Gas-powered lawn mowers contribute about 5% of the nation's air pollution, and using a gas mower for one hour produces as much pollution as driving a car for 100 miles.

36. DIY pollinator-friendly insecticide

Make a safe, homemade insecticide to protect your plants without harming beneficial insects. Mix 1 cup of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of dish soap. Use 2 teaspoons of this mixture with 1 cup of warm water in a glass spray bottle to treat your plants. This natural insecticide is effective against common garden pests and safer for pollinators.

How it helps: Conventional pesticide use is linked to a 47% decline in insect populations, including essential pollinators.

37. Create wildlife habitats

Create habitats for local wildlife. Providing food, water, and shelter for local wildlife supports biodiversity and helps maintain a balanced ecosystem in your yard.

"If half of American lawns were replaced with native plants, we would create the equivalent of a 20 million acre national park–nine times bigger than Yellowstone." —Dr. Doug Tallamy, Professor and Chair of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware.

38. Mosquito control with wildlife

Install bat boxes and birdhouses to help control mosquito populations naturally. Encouraging these creatures to inhabit your yard reduces the need for chemical insecticides, promoting a healthier environment for all.

How it helps: A single barn swallow can consume up to 850 insects per day, adding up to 25,000 fewer insects over the course of a month

39. Install solar lights for outdoor lighting

Solar-powered lights are a sustainable alternative to traditional outdoor lighting, reducing your electricity use and carbon footprint. They charge during the day and automatically illuminate your yard at night, enhancing security and ambiance without increasing your energy bill.

How it helps: On a day with ample sunlight, solar lights can gather enough energy to power up to 10 hours of illumination, without requiring any grid electricity. 

40. Help create dark skies at night

Change outside light fixtures so they don't shine up into the night sky, set a timer for them so they turn off at a certain time of night, or turn them off entirely. This will save energy, help nocturnal animals see better, and connect you to the stars above.

How it helps: Light pollution affects over 80% of the world's population.

41. Share your observations in Nature

There are numerous citizen science platforms, such as iNaturalist, where you can log wildlife sightings, birdsongs, and local flora, contributing to vital research that helps scientists better understand and protect ecosystems.

How it helps: More than 150 million contributions from everyday people have provided iNaturalist with valuable data that aids researchers in tracking biodiversity and advancing conservation efforts.

42. Laundry sheets

Use biodegradable laundry sheets instead of traditional liquid or powder detergents. These sheets are pre-measured, reduce packaging waste, and are free from harmful chemicals, making them a more environmentally friendly option for doing laundry.

How it helps: Over 700 million plastic detergent jugs are discarded in the US each year. 

43. Wash clothes on cold

Switching to cold water cuts down on energy use and costs associated with heating up water. It also extends the life of most fabrics, preventing colors from fading and reducing the risk of shrinkage.

How it helps: Washing clothes in cold water can reduce energy usage by up to 90%, as most of the energy used in laundry goes toward heating the water

44. Use a clothesline or drying rack 

Instead of using a dryer, hang your clothes to dry. This saves energy and reduces wear and tear on your clothing, extending its lifespan.

How it helps: Dryers account for 6% of residential electricity consumption in the US.

45. Use energy-efficient LED light bulbs

LEDs consume significantly less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both your electricity bill and the frequency of bulb replacements.

How it helps: LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

46. Install faucets that reduce water usage

Aerated faucets mix air with water, maintaining pressure while using less water, which helps conserve this precious resource and lower your utility bills.

How it helps: Aerated faucets can reduce water usage by up to 30%.

47. Invest in a smart thermostat to optimize heating and cooling

Smart thermostats learn your schedule and adjust the temperature automatically, improving energy efficiency and reducing your heating and cooling costs.

How it helps: A smart thermostat can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 10-12%, with some models even claiming savings of up to 15% on cooling costs specifically.

48. Grow indoor plants to improve air quality

Houseplants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, while also filtering out toxins from the air. They can also boost your mood and overall well-being.

How it helps: Indoor plants can reduce airborne toxins by up to 87% within 24 hours.

49. Install solar panels to generate renewable energy

It’s a big endeavor and investment to do your entire house, but you can always start small. Using solar panels to power a security light, garden shed, or other small devices is a great way to begin transitioning to renewable energy.

How it helps: The EPA estimates that 25% of all greenhouse gases come from electricity production.

50. Use ceiling fans to reduce air conditioning needs

Ceiling fans circulate air, making rooms feel cooler in the summer, and can be reversed in the winter to distribute warm air. This can reduce your reliance on air conditioning and heating systems, saving energy and lowering utility bills.

How it helps: Ceiling fans use about 1% of the electricity that air conditioners consume, meaning you can run a fan all day and still use less energy than 15 minutes of air conditioning.

51. Invest in power strips that reduce energy consumption

Smart power strips can automatically shut off power to devices that are not in use, preventing energy waste from phantom or standby power. This helps lower your electricity usage and costs.

How it helps: Devices consume 75% of their electricity while they are turned off or in standby mode.

52. Opt for rechargeable batteries instead of single-use ones

Rechargeable batteries can be used hundreds of times, significantly reducing the amount of toxic waste that ends up in landfills. Over time, they are also more cost-effective and reliable, ensuring that your small devices, like remote controls, are always powered while minimizing environmental impact.

How it helps: Each year, Americans throw away more than 3 billion batteries, totaling 180,000 tons of hazardous waste.

53. Use curtains that help regulate temperature

Energy-efficient curtains or thermal drapes can insulate windows, keeping heat out in the summer and retaining warmth in the winter. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduces the need for heating and cooling, saving energy.

How it helps: In cooling seasons, cellular shades can reduce unwanted solar heat through windows by up to 60%, and in heating seasons, can reduce heat loss through windows by 40%.

54. Choose furniture made from recycled or sustainable materials

Opting for second-hand, refurbished, or furniture made from reclaimed wood and other recycled materials helps reduce waste and supports sustainable practices.

How it helps: Around 900 million trees are felled annually around the world — with about 40% used for timber products and wood that are used to create furniture.

55. Repurpose old textiles

Instead of throwing out old clothes, towels, or linens, find creative ways to reuse them around the house. You can turn them into cleaning rags, sew them into reusable bags, or even use them for craft projects. This reduces waste, limits the demand for new textiles, and gives new life to items that might otherwise end up in landfills.

How it helps: Globally, 92 million tons of textile waste is generated per year.

56. Save and reuse glass jars

Pour boiling water into a used candle jar to remove the remaining wax and wick, then repurpose the jar for decorative storage or organizing small household items. The same technique works for any glass jar—just soak it in hot water to easily peel off the adhesive sticker. Reusing glass jars gives them a second life, reducing waste and adding charm to your home.

How it helps: Americans dispose of 10 million metric tons of glass annually.

57. Make ecobricks

Pack a plastic bottle with cut-up wrappers and small plastics to create an ecobrick. You can use them as reusable building blocks or donate them to an ecobrick center. This creative recycling method helps keep non-biodegradable plastics out of landfills and can be used for various DIY projects.

How it helps: Creating ecobricks helps reduce the 8 million tons of plastic that enters our oceans each year.

58. Decorate with wildflower arrangements

Instead of purchasing store-bought flowers and bouquets, use the biodiversity in your own backyard! Wildflowers and "weeds" can be used in either fresh or dried arrangements for stunning home decor.

How it helps: Cut flowers imported for events like Valentine’s Day can generate significant carbon emissions—360,000 metric tons of CO₂ for flowers flown from Colombia to the US, equivalent to the annual emissions of about 78,000 cars.

59. Let spiders be your roommates

Spiders are natural pest controllers, eating disease-spreading insects like flies and mosquitoes. Most household spiders are harmless to humans and, if left alone, can reduce the need for chemical pest control methods, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

How it helps: A single spider can consume about 2,000 insects a year! 

60. Once or twice a year do a spring or seasonal cleaning

Decluttering can be great for your mental and physical health, but it can be good for the environment too as you take stock of what you are overconsuming and what you need.

How it helps: A minimalist lifestyle, which involves consuming fewer material goods and being mindful about purchases, has the potential to reduce household carbon emissions, as approximately 65% of global emissions are generated by household consumption.

61. Observe an "Eco-Sabbath"

For one day, afternoon, or hour a week, don't buy anything, don't switch on anything electric, don't create any waste, etc. Simply enjoy everything as is and rest.

How it helps: Earth Hour, a worldwide annual event where participants turn off non-essential lights for one hour, has reduced global electricity demand by an average of 4%, demonstrating the power of collective action in energy conservation.

62. Reduce paper mail

Opt out of junk mail and switch to digital statements and bills. This reduces paper waste and saves resources.

How it helps: More than 100 billion pieces of junk mail are delivered in the US annually–about 300 per person.

63. Bring your own cup to coffee shops

Many coffee shops offer discounts for bringing your own cup, which not only saves you money but also reduces the number of disposable cups that end up in landfills. Choose a durable, insulated cup that keeps your drink at the desired temperature for longer.

How it helps: In the US, 146 billion disposable coffee and tea cups are thrown away each year. 

64. Carry a reusable bottle to avoid single-use plastics

A high-quality reusable bottle can keep your drinks cold or hot for hours and significantly reduce your reliance on disposable plastic bottles. Stainless steel, glass, or BPA-free plastic bottles are great choices that are easy to clean and carry.

How it helps: It’s estimated 1.3 billion plastic bottles are used each day across the world, which is about 1 million per minute. 

65. Cut down on single-use plastics by carrying a travel silverware set

Many sets come in sleek, portable cases that fit easily in your purse, briefcase, or backpack. By having your own utensils, you can avoid using plastic cutlery when dining out, reducing waste and promoting sustainable habits.

How it helps: Each year 40 billion plastic forks, spoons, and knives are used and thrown away each year.

66. Say no to plastic straws and carry a reusable straw

Many places offer alternatives like paper or metal straws, but the best option is to bring your own reusable straw made from stainless steel, silicone, or bamboo, reducing the number of single-use plastic straws.

How it helps: Every day the US discards 500 million plastic straws that end up in landfills and oceans forever.

67. Get your library card

Borrow books instead of buying new ones. Libraries also offer a wide range of resources beyond books, including board games, video games, consoles, audiobooks, digital media, classes, and community activities. Even if you don’t use it often, simply getting a library card helps support your local library by boosting membership numbers, which can increase funding and resources for the community.

How it helps: Each year, 626,000 tons of paper are used to produce books in the US, contributing to deforestation and resource consumption.

68. Use public transportation

Buses, trains, and subways are more energy-efficient than individual cars, and using public transit can help decrease traffic congestion and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it can save you money on fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance.

How it helps: Public transportation systems produces 76% less greenhouse gas emissions per passenger mile than a single-occupancy vehicle.

69. Choose biking or walking for short trips

These modes of transportation are not only eco-friendly but also great for your health. Biking and walking can reduce your carbon footprint, improve air quality, and provide you with regular exercise.

How it helps: Walking or cycling could replace 41% of short car trips, saving nearly 5% of CO₂ emissions from car travel, as half of all car trips are less than 3 miles long.

70. Share rides with others to reduce emissions

Carpooling with colleagues, friends, or neighbors can significantly cut down on the number of vehicles on the road, reducing traffic and lowering overall emissions. It also offers a cost-effective way to travel by splitting fuel and toll costs.

How it helps: Transportation is responsible for about 29% of US greenhouse gas emissions. By carpooling, you effectively cut those emissions in half per passenger mile.

71. Dine-in whenever possible instead of getting takeout

Dining-in reduces the need for single-use containers, plastic cutlery, and other disposable items. It also enhances your dining experience and can be a more enjoyable and eco-friendly way to eat out.

How it helps: Every year, over 380 million tons of plastic are produced, with up to 50% used for single-use items that last just a few moments but remain on the planet for hundreds of years.

72. Choose ice cream cones

This one seems silly, but every choice we make can impact the planet. Simply opting for a cone over a dish when out for ice cream keeps that little bit of plastic and paper waste out of landfills. Small choices like these can add up over time, promoting a more sustainable and waste-free lifestyle.

How it helps: Microplastics—particles smaller than 5 millimeters that shed off as plastic degrades—have been found almost everywhere on Earth, from oceans and freshwater bodies to the air, soil, rain, and even in the human body, including in the blood, saliva, liver, kidneys, and placenta.

73. Cloth or bamboo diapers instead of disposables

Cloth and bamboo diapers are washable and reusable, reducing the significant waste associated with disposable diapers. They are made from natural, breathable materials that are gentle on your baby’s skin and the environment.

How it helps: Every year, around 20 billion disposable diapers are dumped in landfills worldwide, generating over 3.5 million tonnes of waste that takes nearly 500 years to decompose.

74. Toy swap

Exchange gently used toys with friends or family who have children in the same age group. This practice reduces waste and saves money, while also providing your children with “new” toys to enjoy. It’s a great way to promote sharing and sustainability within your community.

How it helps: About 80% of toys end up in landfills, incinerators, or the ocean, with 90% made from plastic and typically used for only six months on average.

75. Exchange clothes with other families

Kids outgrow clothes quickly, so swapping gently used clothes with friends or neighbors is a practical way to reduce waste and save money. It also fosters a sense of community and ensures that clothes get more use before being discarded.

How it helps: Each year, over 183 million pieces of children's clothing end up in landfills.

76. Encourage outdoor play and connection with Nature

Spending time outdoors helps children develop an appreciation for the environment and promotes physical and mental well-being. Activities like hiking, gardening, and exploring local parks can foster a lifelong love for the Earth. 

Consider joining a Forest School Co-op network, where children engage in nature-based learning and play, deepening their connection to the natural world. It also help families build community with like-minded individuals concerened about the planet and working together to create a greener, most holistic future.

How it helps: A study from the University of British Columbia found that children who play outdoors are more likely to protect Nature as adults.

77. Activities rather than gifts

Give experiences instead of material gifts. Activities like zoo visits, museum passes, or a day at the park create lasting memories and reduce the accumulation of material possessions. This approach promotes quality time and environmental consciousness.

How it helps: The toy industry uses 40 tons of plastic for every $1 million in revenues and is the most plastic-intensive industry in the world. 

78. Host eco-friendly birthday celebrations

Use reusable decorations, opt for plant-based or compostable tableware, and plan activities that focus on nature and sustainability. This reduces waste and teaches children about the importance of caring for the environment.

How it helps: In the United States alone, up to 3 billion balloons are sold each year by wholesale suppliers

79. Choose school supplies made from recycled materials

Products like notebooks, pencils, and binders made from recycled or sustainable materials help reduce waste and promote environmental responsibility among students.

How it helps: A staggering 77% of school supplies are wasted, with most students having unused items by the end of the school year.

80. Choose sustainable pet food

Opt for pet food made with responsibly sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. Look for brands that prioritize sustainability and minimize their environmental footprint.

How it helps: Pet food is responsible for around 25% of the environmental effects of meat production, including land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions.

81. Use biodegradable waste bags and litter

 Switch to biodegradable poop bags for dogs and eco-conscious litter for cats. These options help reduce the impact of pet waste on the environment.

How it helps: Approximately 0.76–1.23 million tons of global dog poop bags are disposed annually.

82. Always pick up after your pup

Dog waste is not native to most ecosystems, so always pick it up to avoid disrupting wild habitats.

How it helps: Dog waste contains nitrogen and phosphorus, which can deplete oxygen levels in waterways, harming fish and other aquatic life, while also promoting the growth of harmful algae.

83. Select eco-friendly toys and accessories

Buy pet toys and accessories made from natural, recycled, or upcycled materials. These products are often more durable and safer for both pets and the planet.

How it helps: Every year, an estimated 634 million dog toys end up in our landfills, which is equivalent to 40,500 tons of waste.

84. Use natural grooming products

Choose natural and organic grooming products, such as shampoos and flea treatments, that are free from harmful chemicals and sustainably produced. This ensures the health and well-being of your pet while being gentle on the environment.

How it helps: Dogs were found to have 2.4 times higher levels of stain-and grease-proof chemicals (PFCs) than people, while cats had 23 times more fire retardants (PBDEs), highlighting the significant chemical exposure risks our pets face.

85. Bring reusable bags when shopping

These durable bags reduce the need for single-use plastic bags and can hold more items, making your shopping experience more convenient and sustainable.

How it helps: Annually, approximately 500 trillion plastic bags are used worldwide.

86. Use reusable bags for veggies, fruits, and herbs

Lightweight and often made from mesh or fabric, these bags help cut down on plastic waste in the produce section.

How it helps: On average, a plastic shopping bag is used for just 12 minutes, and will take 1,000 years to break down in a landfill. 

87. Resist the urge to buy pre-chopped produce in plastic containers

By purchasing whole fruits and vegetables and chopping them yourself at home, you can reduce plastic consumption and packaging waste. Additionally, whole produce is typically fresher and less processed, retaining more nutrients and flavor.

How it helps: The world produces 141 million tonnes of plastic packaging a year.

88. Buy fruits and vegetables in season

Seasonal produce is typically fresher, cheaper, and has a lower carbon footprint because it doesn’t require long-distance transportation or energy-intensive growing methods.

How it helps: Transporting out-of-season produce across long distances can increase greenhouse gas emissions by up to 10 times compared to locally sourced, seasonal produce.

89. Choose certified organic products to support sustainable farming

Organic farming practices reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, decreases water pollution while promoting healthier soils and ecosystems.

How it helps: Organic farming can reduce energy use by 30-50%.

90. Shop at farmers' markets 

Buying directly from farmers reduces the environmental impact associated with transporting goods long distances. Local produce is often fresher and more sustainable, and supporting local farmers helps strengthen the local economy and community. Additionally, farmers' markets offer homemade goods like soap, shampoo, and candles that can help cut down on plastic waste. These products are often made from natural ingredients and come with minimal packaging, further supporting sustainable practices.

How it helps: Locally sourced products can generate 5 to 17 times less carbon dioxide (CO₂) compared to those transported from far distances.

91. Support local businesses

Local businesses often have smaller supply chains, meaning fewer emissions from transportation. Plus, supporting local businesses strengthens your community's economy.

How it helps: Data shows that local retailers return 52% of their revenue back into the local economy, compared to just 14% for national chain retailers.

92. Hit up the local thrift store

Buying second-hand clothes and items reduces the demand for new products, cuts down on waste, and often finds unique, high-quality items at a fraction of the price.

How it helps: There is enough clothing on the planet right now to dress the next six generations of the human race.

93. Join a Buy, Sell, Trade, or Buy Nothing social media group

Participate in local online groups where you can exchange items you no longer need for things you do. These groups help reduce waste by keeping usable goods in circulation and out of landfills. They also foster a sense of community and can save you money by finding what you need at no cost or a lower cost than buying new.

How it helps: People do not wear at least 50% of their wardrobes, so participating in local exchange groups helps give these unused items a second life.

94. Purchase in bulk

While we like to promote only buying what you need, if you have the storage room and know you will end up using the items, buying in bulk significantly reduces the amount of single-use packaging waste, which helps decrease your environmental footprint. It also means fewer trips to the store!

How it helps: Buying in bulk can reduce packaging waste by 72%.

95. Buy fair trade-certified products to support ethical practices

Fair trade certification ensures that producers are paid fairly and work under safe conditions, promoting sustainable livelihoods.

How it helps: Fairtrade International reports that more than 1.9 million farmers and workers in 71 countries benefit from fair trade certification.

96. Choose digital receipts instead of printed ones

Many stores now offer the option to email or text you your receipt. Digital receipts save paper and reduce the need for physical storage of receipts, making it easier to keep track of your purchases electronically.

How it helps: Every year in the US, receipt use consumes over 3 million trees, 9 billion gallons of water, and generates over 4 billion pounds of CO₂.

97. Opt for less packaging

When online shopping is unavoidable, look for the option at checkout to reduce the number of boxes or packing materials used in shipping. This helps minimize waste and reduces your environmental impact.

How it helps: Approximately 100 billion cardboard boxes are produced each year in the US.

98. Repair instead of replace

Fixing broken items extends their lifespan and reduces the demand for new products, which in turn conserves resources and reduces waste.

How it helps: Worldwide, around 50 million metric tons of e-waste is generated annually.

99. Reduce consumption by adopting minimalism

Resist the bombardment of social media ads targeted at you. Focusing on quality over quantity and only purchasing what you truly need can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle.

How it helps: In a survey of 2,500 people across various countries who identified as living with fewer possessions, 87% reported feeling happier than when they owned more.

100. Participate in local recycling programs

Properly sorting and recycling your waste helps reduce the amount of trash sent to landfills and promotes the reuse of materials.

How it helps: In one year, recycling, composting, and waste management efforts save over 193 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, which is similar to removing nearly 42 million cars from the road.

101. Support climate initiatives

If you have the means, support climate solutions and science by donating to environmental nonprofits like One Earth. Contributing to organizations dedicated to fighting climate change helps fund critical research and conservation efforts making a broader impact beyond individual actions. Donations can be a one-time gift or set up as recurring monthly or yearly contribution  Every bit helps, and consistent support ensures these organizations can continue their vital work over the long term, amplifying their positive effect.

How it helps: Environmental nonprofits receive just 2% of all charitable dollars. 

Start Small, Make a Big Difference

Adopting these 101 climate solutions at home can make a significant impact on reducing your carbon footprint and promoting a healthier planet. Each small change contributes to a larger, collective effort towards sustainability. 

This list isn't meant to add to eco-anxiety but to help reduce it by showing that even small, manageable actions can make a difference. Start by doing one or two things at a time and gradually incorporate more into your routine.

The choices we make today shape the world we leave for future generations. By integrating these practices into our daily lives, we are taking an active role in combating climate change and making a better Earth for us all!

Support Climate Solutions