Tomorrow is Earth Day, a great reminder that we can all try to do a little more to help protect the environment. Now more than ever, designers and brands are shifting to create more eco-friendly designs, whether it’s the materials used or how it’s made, or designing a product that replaces something not so sustainable or green. We really don’t have anymore excuses when it comes to making better decisions about who we give our money to, as many of these products are easily attainable, and often affordable when you think of long-term use. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, keep reading for 8 easy eco-friendly swaps you can make on Earth Day and beyond.

LARQ Bottle PureVis – DG23 Edition \\\ $95
Save landfills from being overloaded with plastic water bottles by switching to a reusable version, like this collaboration edition with three-time NBA champion, Draymond Green. Plus, this bottle purifies your water in 60 seconds to eliminated harmful bacteria and viruses. Available in 17oz and 25oz.

To Go Small Tumbler by KINTO \\\ $35
Ditch disposable coffee cups for reusable to-go ones for your daily coffee habit and it will save tons of paper cups from going in the garbage. Plus, this tumbler keeps your coffee hot because who likes lukewarm coffee? Available in Pink, White, Coyote, Khaki, Silver and Black.

Glass Straws in Cool Set by Poketo \\\ $24
Plastic straws have already been banned in some cities with more following along in hopes of reducing how many end up in landfills. Glass straws are so convenient and this pack includes four different colors, a drawstring bag to take them with you and a much-needed brush to keep them fresh and clean.

Porter Charcoal Terrazzo Utensil Set by W&P \\\ $18
When you get takeout food, the restaurant inevitably adds plastic utensils to your order. Many times they get tossed and not used at all, or perhaps just a fork and then the unused get thrown away – either way, it’s a waste. This set makes it easy to put an end to single-use utensils with its sturdy fork, spoon and sharp knife that fit within its stylish silicone carrying case, which also keeps it clean. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite in your car, camping, at work or staying in a hotel, these will come in handy!

Expanded Bento Box by TAKENAKA BENTOBOX \\\ $30
Say goodbye to plastic bags, tin foil and plastic wrap when it’s time to head out but you need to bring food with you. Whether you’re prepping a traditional bento box meal or not, a bento box is such a handy way to transport food to work, while traveling or even on a picnic. This expanded version features two compartments and comes with an orange elastic band to keep it secure until you’re ready to eat. Available in Candy Pink, Coral, Daffodil Yellow, Glacier Grey, Green, Light Blue, Peppermint, Power Pink, Red, Serenity Blue and White.

Bitmap Tea Towel Color Set by Areaware \\\ $52
Paper towels can add up to a lot of trash if you’re using them for drying hands or dishes, as well as cleaning. Swapping to something more eco-friendly, like tea towels, is a great way to still get the job done without all the waste. This set comes with four, cool tea towels featuring Susan Kare’s iconic designs that reference her work at Apple Computer in the 80s where she designed fonts, icons and visual elements for the original Macintosh operating system.

Ami Net Market Tote by Graf Lantz \\\ $19
Plastic shopping bags are becoming scarce at grocery stores these days and for good reason. Carrying our own reusable bags to the store or farmers market has become the norm even though we occasionally forget to bring them with us (we’re all guilty of this, right?). These Ami Net Totes are super convenient because they collapse to next to nothing and fit within its own pouch making it easy to just keep in your bag or car, ready for the next time you’re shopping. They’re also great to bring to the beach or pool to hold your towels and various gear. Available in Orange, Army, Earth and Natural.

Original Folding Helmet by Closca \\\ $145
A big change that we all can make is to drive our cars less in hopes of reducing air pollution. Biking is much quicker than walking plus you’ll get a good workout in, whether you’re cycling for pleasure or commuting to work. If you’re biking, you obviously need a helmet and this one from Closca is not only comfortable and safe, it’s incredibly cool looking. When it’s not in use, simple collapse it for easy storage or portability without taking up lots of room. Available in Black or White with a Gray visor, and in sizes S, M and L.

>>> For more Earth Day-inspired products you can purchase today, visit the Design Milk Shop here! <<<

Bologna-based architecture studio Mario Cucinella Architects and 3D printing specialists WASP have collaborated to create a low-carbon housing prototype that is 3D printed using clay. Read more