Did you know those who adopt a vegan diet produce 50% less CO2 emissions and use 13 times less water to grow what they eat? But if the thought of going totally plant-based seems impossible to you, you can also just adopt small changes and be semi-vegan. Swap out things like dairy cheese for new creamy vegan cheeses, and opt for things like vegan jerky over traditional beef for a protein-rich treat. There are plenty of vegan versions of burgers, nuggets and more in the freezer section, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you drink carbonated beverages, which is better: a plastic bottle or aluminum can? The answer is simple: aluminum. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, aluminum cans are one of the most commonly recycled materials. In less than 60 days, a typical soda can goes from the supermarket to the recycling bin to the recycling facility and is back on the shelf as a new soda can. This recycling process can be done indefinitely because aluminum is durable, unlike plastic, which can only be recycled a few times before being discarded into a landfill.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One of the best things you can do when seeking out consumer goods is to buy used. When it comes to the environmental impact of things like clothing, cars, household items, electronics, books and other nonperishables, lightly used always beats out new in terms of environmental footprint. And with the growth of online marketplaces to connect sellers and buyers with ease, there’s no reason not to seek out pre-loved goods when you need them.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION