I’m not the most eco-conscious person I know, nor do I pretend to be. My planet-loving friends have given me strict talkings to about my love of paper towels and not-so-stellar recycling capabilities.

I am definitely not proud about the paper towels. But to my credit, I’ve made progress on recycling. I changed my ways after my “sit-down” and now get a gold star for my efforts.

Still, we could all do more to help the planet. (Side note to those composting in their backyard: Pretty sure you’re covered.) For the rest of us, here are a few simple and easy ways to get a little greener:

Recycle Electronics

Help keep chemicals and heavy metals out of the ground by recycling your electronics. Best Buy’s recycling program makes it easy, so you have no excuse. Simply bring in your used electronics and Best Buy will recycle them at no charge, regardless of where you purchased the products.

Bring Your Own Mug

Save a few trees and bring in a reusable mug when getting coffee. As an added bonus (as if saving the planet wasn’t enough), Caribou will reward anyone that brings in their own mug with a free coffee (today only). Some shops offer discounts year-round when you bring your own cup.

Reusable Grocery Bags

Bring your own reusable bags when going grocery shopping. Chico Bags are great for smaller runs – they fold up into a tiny ball, easily fitting into a purse or computer bag. For larger hauls, Lunds and Byerly’s are giving away free reusable bags with a minimum $10 purchase (through April 24). Simply show the coupon and you’re set!

Wash Laundry in Cold Water

Save energy – and money – by turning the dial to cold on your washing machine. Almost 90 percent of the energy used by washing machines goes into heating.

Cloth Napkins

Switch from paper to cloth napkins and decrease the amount of paper products you’re buying.

This list doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface – there are many more ways to be a little friendlier to the environment. It is a start though, and any effort helps. So get moving, and get a little greener this Earth Day.