Sitting in traffic on the highway wastes more than just time to get to your destination. Numerous studies have shown that the environmental impact is huge -- massive amounts of petroleum are wasted as cars sit idle, and air pollution increases significantly with nitrous oxides and particulates polluting the air. To avoid traffic, use a GPS, take alternate routes and travel during off-peak hours. One more seemingly minor adjustment: Signal when changing lanes. Studies show signaling early allows other drivers to adjust their speed and position, which helps prevent traffic jams.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Does your smartphone have hundreds, if not thousands, of photos on it? Storing all of those photos "in the cloud" has a big environmental impact. The energy required to store, manage and back up your images on servers is quite significant. In fact, a recent study showed the average person takes just under 1,000 photos a year, which is equal to 10.6 kg of C02 emissions a year. Multiply that by the billions of people with smartphones, and it adds up to a lot. To make a difference, routinely purge unwanted and duplicate photos.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you want to use your social media platforms to spread helpful, important and verified information on how others can help protect the environment? The nonprofit EarthDay.org wants you to join their social squad. They’ll send you formatted emails that are easy to post directly on social platforms like Instagram and Facebook. It takes just a couple of clicks, and when your followers like, share and comment, it helps spread the word. Learn more at EarthDay.org.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION