During the summer, you might find yourself enjoying nature and appreciating the world around you more. However, you might also notice the increasing temperatures and extreme weather conditions growing more common. If you want to make a difference this season, now is the time to pick up more eco-friendly habits. Here are seven simple ways to care for the planet this summer.

1. Refrain From Using Disposable Products

You’ll probably hit the beach, go on an out-of-state vacation or plan a fun cookout this summer. Whatever your warm weather itinerary entails, skip the disposable cups, plates and utensils. If you’re on the go and can’t wash reusable products, choose compostable options instead. After use, you can deposit them in a composting facility where they’ll break down naturally and become nutrients for the soil instead of causing pollution.

2. Use Reusable Water Bottles

Hydration is essential during summer. A good rule of thumb is to drink 1 milliliter of water for every calorie consumed. If you eat 2,000 calories daily, your fluid intake should be 2,000 milliliters or about 68 ounces. Stay hydrated while helping the planet by using stainless steel, glass or silicone water bottles you can carry and refill wherever you go.

3. Dry Clothes Under the Sun

The dryer is one of the most power-intensive appliances at home. Take advantage of the sun to dry your laundry and save up to $200 in utility bills annually. Hanging your clothes outdoors can be a quick and cost-effective way to dry them..

4. Bring Outdoor Plants Indoors

Bring plants indoors, in areas of increasing shade, until they adapt to their new conditions and environments. Why should you move greens inside? Besides protecting them from the scorching heat, some varieties — like dracaenas, chrysanthemums and spider plants — act as natural air purifiers, increasing the oxygen indoors while eliminating pollutants. You can use them to replace air purification systems and save energy.

Plants are essential biophilic elements. Placing them inside, such as in a sunroom, improves your mental health and mood. The combination of plants and sun indoors increases vitamin D production and gives your system a much-needed boost.

5. Walk or Bike

Trade driving your car for walking or biking. Doing so increases your movement activity, which benefits your physical health. It also reduces your carbon footprint, making for one less emission the environment has to deal with.

6. Consume Less Meat

Livestock production accounts for 32% of global methane emissions caused by human activities. Eating less meat is one way to bring this number down. Support the planet by reducing the demand for animal-sourced protein and indirectly minimize the deforestation associated with animal ranching.

Take a walk to a local farmer’s market to see what produce is in season – another great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Pairing seasonal vegetables with plant-based protein, like beans, nuts or tofu, makes for a perfect summer meal.

7. Establish an Environmental Community Club

While your individual eco-friendly habits will make a difference, you can maximize your impact by inviting others to join you. Reach out to your neighbors and create an eco-friendly community organization.

You can schedule trash cleanup days, start a community garden, educate others about recycling and composting, and work together to contact your representatives about environmental initiatives. Real change happens when people come together and share their passions. Plus, socializing is great for mental health and can help you cope with climate anxiety.

Help Save the Planet in Your Own Ways

You don't have to be someone with massive influence to save the Earth. Simple, sustainable actions are enough to make you an environmental steward and be a role model for others. This summer, show you care for the planet by participating in ecological initiatives. Take these steps to help mitigate the impact of climate change.