Transitioning into a more sustainable lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight. In fact, when people approach it from an ‘all or nothing’ standpoint, that’s when expectations fall short and feelings of failure set in. I believe every little bit counts. Doing SOMETHING to help the planet is better than nothing at all, and imagine the difference we would make if we ALL did a little something. Nobody is perfect, so don’t strive for perfection. Strive for progress.

Here are 3 simple ways you can go green today and everyday.

1. Reduce your consumption of single-use plastic.

At first this task will take some thought and planning, but once you get the hang of things it will become second nature. The most common single-use plastic goods are plastic water bottles, disposable coffee cups/ lids, plastic straws, plastic grocery bags, plastic utensils, and the list goes on.

Try swapping out the below:

• Swap plastic water bottles for a reusable water bottle

• Swap disposable coffee cups for a reusable coffee tumbler

• Swap plastic straws for a stainless steel straw or ditch straws entirely.

• Swap plastic grocery bags for a reusable bag.

• Swap plastic utensils for a bamboo set when you’re on-the-go, and don't forget to tell the restaurant not to send utensils with your takeout.

Outfit Details: Wearing Athleta's Organic Cotton Pura Bra & Restore Shortie produced from European beechwood trees harvested from sustainable forests.

2. Shop less, and shop smarter.

Before deciding whether to purchase something, ask yourself the following questions:

• Does this item add value to my life?

• Does this item make my life easier or better in some way?

• Is this item of quality and will it last?

Whatever your reason is for purchasing something, make sure it’s not just out of impulse. When I buy clothing, specifically, I go for quality over quantity. I am always aiming to shop more responsibly, and although I’m definitely not perfect, I do the bulk of my shopping with retailers that are considered socially responsible.

Outfit Details: Wearing Athleta's Marinwood Poplin Shirt & Be Present Tight, both made with organic cotton.

This is no surprise, but Athleta is one of my staples for all things yoga, lifestyle, and travel. Did you know they are now a certified B Corp?* That’s huge step forward for a company a large as them. Athleta is leading the pack and setting an example for other industry players to step up their game.

*What is a B Corp?

A B Corporation (B Corp for short) meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability, and aspire to use the power of markets to solve social and environmental problems.

Collectively, B Corps lead a growing global movement of people using business as a force for good™. Through the power of their collective voice, one day all companies will compete to be best for the world™, and society will enjoy a more shared and durable prosperity for all.

3. Recycle correctly, and donate regularly.

One of the easiest ways to do your part and go green is to recycle correctly. Here is a handy article that tells you what you can and cannot recycle. Even if you think you’re doing it right, I find it helpful to have a little refresher now and then.

Aside from recycling, consistently donating is another wonderfully easy way to make an impact. Every month, I clean out my closet and make a pile to donate. I send my gently-used or never worn clothing to my teenage cousins, my loyal blog readers (like you guys), and to organizations like Girls Inc. through Thred Up. If you live in a city or don’t have a car, I highly recommend Thred Up. All you need to do is order a free Clean Out Kit. Once your kit arrives, you fill it up with all the clothing you’d like to donate and just ship it out with the prepaid label! Easy peasy. Note: I’ve never sold clothing through Thred Up - only donated.

Shop this post + more of my favorite sustainable looks from Athleta:

Looking for more ways to be green? Read my favorite Easy Swaps for a Sustainable Kitchen.

*This post was written in partnership with Athleta. All thoughts and opinions are always my own. Thank you for supporting me and the brands I love!

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