3 Small Ways You Can Show The Earth Some Love Today (& Every Day!)  

"One of the things I'm trying to do is [instill] that intention," says environmental policy expert Heather White on this episode of the mindbodygreen podcast. "That intention in the practice of sustainability, that one green thing is the cultural driver we need for these big policy solutions to work." She outlines plenty of small tweaks in her book, aptly title One Green Thing, but here's how she recommends nurturing the Earth today: 

Spending a little time planning your menu for the week and taking inventory of how much food you actually need can make a big difference. Not to mention, it's easier on your wallet and will streamline your meal prep. "That's a quick and easy way for you to think about what meals you're making. It saves you money and is a great way for you to have a plan for your leftovers," White adds. "It's super easy and fast." Here's a nutritionist's guide to planning your meals for the week, if you need some inspiration. 

"Just go for a short walk," she suggests. And who knows—you may find some sidewalk trash to clean up along the way. 

Of course, investing in solar panels is a giant leap and not accessible for many, but there are other opportunities to reduce the energy in your home. "Use the LED light bulbs, focus on weatherization—it's not that exciting, but it really does make a huge difference in your energy bills," says White. Many power companies may also allow you to partake in a solar garden, a subscription-based service where you can get a portion of your electricity from a field of solar panels and receive credits on your energy bill. "Basically for every megawatt of power that comes into your house, you can buy renewable energy certificates to offset that," says White. You can read more about community solar and find a program near your home. 

According to White, small actions to better the planet can kick-start greener intentions, helping you care about the future of the environment—and that's what will inspire policy change down the line. "Will menu planning and going for a walk solve the climate crisis? Of course not, but it can bring more clarity to your day," she explains. "It can make you feel better about how you're contributing to change, and it can inspire other people to take action."