With such a global focus on the deteriorating condition of the environment and how humans are contributing to its demise, many people are setting goals to participate in a sustainable lifestyle that incorporates a series of green goals.

Although sometimes the environmental outlook can seem bleak, there are many ways individuals can make a difference.

Here's a list of ideas to get started.

Simplify beauty regimens

There's no need to purchase costly beauty serums and washes that may or may not contain harmful chemicals. As it turns out, many things can be made at home from food sources. Dry skin can be treated with a blend of avocado and honey. Cottage cheese can calm redness. There are those who are even proponents of washing your face with pure oil.

Personal hygiene alternatives

Most people already know about switching from disposable to cloth diapers (almost 30 billion disposable diapers are disposed of in the United States each year). But there are other disposable items that contribute to personal waste. Instead of traditional female hygiene products, choose reusable cups or cloth items. Some advocate the use of bidet-type toilets to reduce dependency on toilet paper.

Rethink clothing purchases

When shopping for new clothes, choose durable or even sustainable products, such as those made from hemp or organic cotton. Another alternative is to buy used clothing or participate in clothing swaps.

Give experiences, not gifts

Instead of gifts that need to be bought and stored, consider tickets to a show, lessons for dance or martial arts, trips to a zoo, or other life experiences that can be enjoyable and build memories.

There are many ways to be eco-friendly now and in the years ahead. Think about your lifestyle and figure out the small things you can change that will make a big difference down the road.

By MS