We all know that we should be recycling, not just because recycling is good for the environment but also because it's good for future generations as a whole. Scientists have recently announced that the ice sheets in Antarctica are melting faster than originally expected. With that being said, if we as a society refuse to take action our futures will be met with very grim consequences. Here are seven ways you can start reducing your carbon footprint.

1. Replace plastic with reusable items

Katy Belcher

This can be as simple as bringing your own reusable grocery bags or buying a reusable water bottle. There are so many plastic products that we just use once and throw away. Replacing plastic with reusable items is probably one of the easiest things you can do.

2. Or switch plastic to paper

Edwin Macalopú Diaz

If you're not a fan of reusable bags or straws, switching from plastic to paper is still a good alternative. Paper can easily be disposed and recycled.

3. Invest in renewable energy sources

Chase Lewis

Yes, this is an expensive investment but before completely dropping off the power grid, keep in mind there are still some things you can do. Electric cars, for example, sometimes cost the same or slightly more than diesel or gas powered cars.

4. Try to reuse before you throw away

Wenni Zhou

Empty peanut butter jar? Clothes to dingy to donate? These things can still have a second life. Old T-shirts make great rags for spills or for washing your car. Paint and clean that peanut butter jar to hold small knick-knacks. While there are some things you obviously can't reuse, finding new uses for old items saves you money and keeps them out of landfills.

5. Look for environmentally friendly product

Matthew Feeney

These can be products made from recycled materials or that are made with ingredients that won't hurt the environment when used. These can be easier to find than you think, though they can sometimes be a bit more expensive.

6. Dispose of items properly

David Edelstein

Computer waste, prescription drugs and tires do not belong in landfills. Disposing of these items properly can make a world of a difference and keep toxic materials away from animals and out of the soil. Visit the EPA website to learn more about recycling everyday items.

7. Recycle, recycle, recycle

Alfonso Navarro

Lastly, recycling is the holy grail of reducing your carbon footprint. While some communities charge if you don't recycle, there are still a large portion that do not. By not recycling, we allow more waste to end up in landfills, increase the amount of plastic produced and increase deforestation for the sake of our paper products. Learn more about recycling here.