Like a lot of people, I used to have the mindset: 'I'm one person, more or less a kid, and my actions really won't have any effect on the world'. I'm 19, so I haven't had a lot of time to learn the ins and outs of life's biggest secrets, but all I can say is damn, I was wrong.

You don't have to alter your entire life to start working towards creating a better planet for generations to come (not to mention our generation, too). Little things do add up- no matter where, or when, you choose to start.

If every person changed even one little thing about their daily routine, eliminating plastic waste here, reducing their water intake there, imagine the impact we would eventually see.

1. Use reusable bags for clothes and grocery shopping

They're inexpensive, you have less plastic bags ripping when you're casually trying to carry 16 bags into your apartment, and hey, you're using a little less plastic while you're at it.

2. Ask for drinks without straws

Or bring your own reusable one if you can't handle the extreme sport of putting your lips to a glass. I know, it's daunting, but think of all the sea turtles that will have nostrils without straws wedged up them with your sacrifice.

3. Recycle red solo cups

Yes, Ann Arbor, I'm looking at you. Okay, so it's not realistic to think drunk people are going to hold onto their cup throughout the party, but it would be pretty cool if frats or whoever is hosting starting recycling them rather than trashing them... or leaving them scattered across campus.

4. Turn off lights when you're not home

You might even build some arm muscles and save a lot of pocket change while you're at it.

5. Get a low flow shower head

Literally $10, and the 'installation process' is basically switching your old shower head with the new one. Most reduce water flow between 50-75%, you won't feel the difference, but you'll cry a little less looking at your utility bill.

6. Donate what you can

Switching houses turns into mania, fast. You go to move, and you swear your sh*t must have multiplied while you were looking away. Rather than trashing everything in sight you don't want, make piles and donate what could be used by others. Helps you out, takes away from the landfills, and makes a difference for those who aren't as fortunate.

7. Buy biodegradable trash bags

Into being trendy? Use these ~green~ bad boys. Normally cheaper in bulk than regular bags, and help reduce the smell of your trash.

8. Stick to reusable water bottles

My body gets dehydrated so quickly, but carrying around a good sized water bottle makes me drink a lot more. It's crazy, but if you're like me and have zero dollars to your name, there are cheaper (and just as nice) options other than Swell.

9. Use jars and containers instead of ziplock bags

Sensing a trend? I'm proud of you. I know it's a pretty tricky world out here #get #rid #of #plastic.