15 Healthy Habits That Are Good For the Planet, Too

Cut down on CO2 emissions, save money on gas, and get exercise by riding your bike to work instead of driving. If bicycling isn't an option for your commute, consider carpooling or taking public transportation instead.

Every year, billions of plastic water bottles end up in landfills and, worse, in the world's ocean. Help solve this problem by opting for a reusable water bottle to take with you on the go. If you're in a pinch and have to buy a bottle of water, be sure to recycle or turn it into a fun and useful DIY project, like this plastic bottle zipper container or a hanging planter.

Organized races not only use up a lot of resources, they are often major trash producers that are not always recyclable. Support organizations that are conscientious about the events they put on by signing up for an eco-friendly race. From compostable water cups, locally sourced food, and tree seedlings as finisher gifts, races like the Portland, Austin, and Boston marathons are all taking big steps in making a greener experience for its runners.

When you're loading up on your fruits and vegetables at the store, be mindful of the season and where it's coming from. Shopping for local, seasonal produce means it took less energy and resources to get that food to you, and best of all, it will be at its freshest. Next, turn your fresh produce into one of these healthy meals and feel good about eating local.

Farm to table takes on a whole new meaning when you grow your own vegetables to eat. Start a garden curated with your favorite vegetables and herbs, and always have the freshest produce right in your own backyard. Gardening is a great outdoor activity and truly is the gift that keeps on giving. Read up on these beginner gardening tips before you get started to ensure a successful crop.

Not only will planning and prepping your meals save you time and money, it will help cut down on the food waste that usually ends up in a landfill. Plan ahead and buy only what your need for the week — you can get creative and see how many different dishes you can make using the same ingredients. If you do end up throwing out any food, throw it in a compost bin so it can be reused for other purposes.

Research shows that Americans use 500 million straws a day, many of which end up in the ocean. So next time you order or make a juice or smoothie, go strawless. Or you can stock up on compostable or reusable straws, and feel good that they won't end up polluting the ocean.

Try removing the TV, tablets, and phones from your bedroom, and go screen-free before bed. Not only will this save energy, it will prevent that late-night scrolling and give you a better night's rest.

We can all use some extra sleep, but shutting down and powering off our computers, TVs, and lights early will also help conserve energy. Try going to bed an hour earlier to save electricity and truly get a good night's rest — you won't regret it!

Lace up those sneakers, shut the lights off, and take your workout outside. Get some fresh air and conserve energy by not using your TV or lights for your workout. Go to the nearest field, park, or beach and try this equipment-free routine fit for a celebrity.

Reschedule that lunchtime fitness class and conserve water by working out first thing in the morning or before bed, so you only have to shower once a day. An early morning workout will also help get you energized for the day ahead while an evening one can help release all the stress and tension from a long day.

Energy-saving programs like Ohm Connect give cash incentives to flip off the lights and turn off the thermostat in order to help users reduce their carbon footprint. Sign up is free and you'll receive notifications for designated times to unplug when energy usage is at its highest in your area. It's a great opportunity to go outside for a break, take a walk, or get that workout in.

Many fitness studios like SoulCycle offer classes that support local charities, many of which help the environment. Search for gyms and studios in your area that have community programs that give back or better yet, offer to organize one.