April is Earth Month, and it is at this time of year especially that we like to take a moment to consider our impact on this beautiful planet. One of the biggest ways you can lessen your footprint on a daily basis is to reduce the amount of waste you produce – namely plastics. It is estimated that 8 million metric tons of plastic ends up in our oceans every year. There, it causes harm to birds, marine animals, and fish. Since most plastics take over 400 years to degrade, this is a problem that will continue to worsen if we do not act now.

Reducing the amount of waste you produce will take a little getting used to (yes, you have to remember to pack a water bottle with you when you go out, and bring your reusable bags into the store!) but these changes can add up quickly to make a huge difference. Read on to learn about some of our favorite tried-and-true products for a sustainable lifestyle.

To-Go Ware Reusable Cutlery

This bamboo utensil set comes in a case made from plastic bottles, and by using the set you can refuse plastic cutlery when dining out – a double win! Each set comes with a carabiner for easy carrying, and each set includes a fork, knife, spoon, and chopsticks. The bamboo is heat and stain resistant, and won’t absorb flavors.

Lifefactory Water Bottles

Lifefactory uses the highest quality materials to produce a full line of BPA-free glass products, including beautiful glass water bottles. The bottles have colorful and functional silicone outer sleeves to prevent breakage. Bring your water bottle everywhere, so you don’t have to use a plastic cup or bottle when you’re out of the house.

Hydro Flask Thermoses

These completely insulated bottles are Kimberton Whole Foods staff favorites for a reason: they keep iced drinks icy cold and hot drinks steaming hot better than anything else we’ve tried. Find food containers, thermoses, and more in a variety of fun colors and sizes. The most important part: remember to keep it in your car for impromptu coffee dates and caffeine runs!

ChicoBag Reusable Grocery Bags

The people behind ChicoBag want to get humanity out of the single-use habit, by producing high-quality, long-lasting reusable bags. These become super compact when not in use, making them easy to pack and keep on hand in your car. (In fact, they’re so tiny that you could clip them right onto your purse, meaning you’ll never forget them in the car again!)

Bees Wrap Reusable Food Wrap

Bees Wrap offers a solution to single-use plastic wrap. Made from organic cotton infused with beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin, the wraps are totally food safe and free from toxins. They are handmade in Bristol, Vermont. Simply mold the wrap around a food product or container and let the warmth of your hands shape and seal the beeswax wrap – easy!

New Wave Enviro Products Stainless Steel Food Containers

Stainless steel is an excellent alternative to plastic containers, as it is non-toxic, non-leaching, insulated, leak-proof, and won’t break if dropped. New Wave Enviro Products offers a great way to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold, with containers that will stand the test of time.

Kattinatt Dishcloths

These swedish reusable cleaning cloths are super absorbent, biodegradable, and are excellent for a variety of purposes, including cleaning countertops, dishes, and anywhere else you’d use a sponge or paper towel. Easy to clean in the dishwasher or washing machine!

RSVP International Stainless Steel Straws

Stainless steel straws are an excellent alternative to plastic straws. Keep one in your car or purse for the next time you order a juice or smoothie. (Find the narrow brushes needed to clean the straws at your neighborhood Kimberton Whole Foods.)

How do you lessen your footprint? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!