We can all make a positive impact with our individual choices. And while we know to avoid plastic bags at all costs, there are a number of simple sustainable swaps that can effectively reduce waste and conserve resources.

Unfortunately, many daily items are composed of plastic and oil-based elements that take years to decompose. As consumers, it’s important to be conscious of our purchases and through these thoughtful swaps, we can individually reduce our carbon footprint and help to promote the livelihood of our planet. Because as we know, small actions of any size, can have astronomical effects.

Below, we’re sharing ten sustainable swaps:

• Opt for beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap

• Opt for a reusable coffee cup instead of a disposable cup 

• Opt for mason jars instead of plastic tupperware for storage

• Opt for reusable towels instead of disposable paper towels

• Opt for silicon baking mats instead of parchment paper

• Opt for reusable straws instead of plastic straws  

• Opt for a tea strainer instead of single use tea bags 

• Opt for a reusable shopping bag instead of store-provided bags

• Opt for house plants with extended life spans instead of cut flowers 

• Opt to hang dry delicate clothing rather than running an entire load