Hey, planet-loving people: being more environmentally friendly doesn’t require a total lifestyle overhaul. In honor of Earth Day, here are a few small, Knoxville-friendly swaps that can add up in a big way.

🧴 Refill, don’t rebuy

Skip single-use plastics and stock up on zero-waste products at KnoxFill. From household cleaners to personal care products, everything is poured into recyclable containers designed for hundreds of refills.

♻️ Recycle smarter

Still wondering “Can I recycle this?” You’re not alone. A quick refresher on the city’s guidelines can save a lot of guesswork — and make your recycling actually count. When in doubt, check Knoxville Solid Waste for where to properly drop off glass, e-waste, and other tricky items.

🛍️ Shop secondhand first

Before you click “add to cart,” check local thrift and vintage shops for your must-have items. Knoxville has plenty of options for clothing, furniture, home goods, and more.

🥕 Support local food

Hit up a farmers market and grab fresh produce from East Tennessee growers to cut down on transportation emissions and wasteful packaging.

🚲 Take the scenic route

Swap a short drive for a walk or bike ride on greenways like Third Creek Greenway — better for the planet and your mood.

🍴 Bring your own everything

Keep a tote, water bottle, and set of utensils handy. Many local spots are happy to accommodate reusable options.

🍏 Compost your scraps

Food waste doesn’t have to end up in the landfill. Help the Knoxville Compost Project reach its goal of composting 20,000 lbs of food waste this year by taking a backyard workshop or bringing your scraps to a drop-off site.