April is Earth Month, a time for people to stop and think about how they can do their part to help the environment.

According to Environmental Defense, a leading nonprofit organization committed to protecting the environment, the United States is ranked the No. 1 global warming polluter. What can you do to help change that? Here are some small steps that you can take every day toward becoming a more conscious consumer:

* Buy in bulk. It’s cheaper in the long run, and you buy more of the product and less of the packaging.

* Look at the businesses you buy from. Does your coffee shop recycle? Does your rental car agency have hybrids? If you’re in doubt, ask. Businesses take note of consumers’ questions, your inquiry could be the one to tip the scale and make a change.

* Make an appointment to celebrate Earth Day and make sure you support an eco-friendly cause or company . One of our very favorites is ReJAVAnate.com, their program takes discarded burlap and jute bags from the coffee industry and reuses the material for accessories made by individuals with developmental disabilities.

* Support your local farmers. Farmers’ markets are where some of the healthiest and freshest food can be found. By supporting farmers in your own community, you’re doing your own body good and cutting down on carbon dioxide emissions of food transportation.

* Recycle! Plastic comes from crude oil and paper comes from trees. By recycling just these two items in your household, you’re helping to save two of the Earth’s valuable resources and reducing your home’s carbon dioxide emissions.

* Pay your bills online. It saves stamps, paper, fuel for mail transport and ultimately saves you money.

* Purchase thoughtful gifts. BuyGreen.com carries a wide variety of earth-friendly gifts like their Pure Beeswax Aromatherapy Pillar Candles made with  high quality essential oils, pure filtered beeswax, and no lead or metal 100% cotton wicks.

* Think eco-fashion. A number of designers are now using clothing materials that go beyond organic cotton, such as biodegradable fabrics and fibers made of recycled plastics. We recommend GreenCouture.com as one of the very best sources for eco-friendly clothing and accessories.

* Spread the word. If you find a green product or company that you like, tell your friends. Consumers can use their collective purchasing power to spearhead change.