Resolutions for a More Sustainable Year

Here are some ideas for resolutions you can make to be more sustainable this year. You can choose to take some on entirely, or work on slowly incorporating these into your daily routine. Every little bit helps the environment!

Reduce Single-Use Items

Try to reduce using single-use items. Eventually, some people are able to achieve a zero-waste lifestyle! Look into using reusable items such as bags, bottles, coffee cups, straws, food containers etc. whenever possible. Go with cloth napkins, towels, and cleaning rags instead of paper products.

Cook More Meals at Home

Home-cooked meals will save money and reduce packaging waste. It also allows you to choose more sustainable, organic, local, whole ingredients.

Buy Less and Be More Mindful in Purchasing

Consider purchasing fewer items overall. When you do make purchases, prioritize things like quality, durability, ethical production, natural materials, and so on. For gifts, consider gifting experiences (such as tickets), or items like gourmet foods, versus material items.

Choose Secondhand First and Avoid Fast Fashion

Shop thrift stores, consignment shops, and other resale shops to help support reusing clothing or home goods. Choose timeless pieces, repair clothing, and wash less often to extend garment life.

Compost & Get a Rain Barrel

Start composting kitchen waste to reduce sending items to the landfill. Get a rain barrel to collect rainwater.

Support Local and Seasonal Foods

Buy from farmers markets or local producers to lower transportation emissions and support your community.

Switch to Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Replace harsh chemical cleaners with natural, biodegradable alternatives.

Look For Ways to Be Energy Efficient

Turn off lights when not in use, unplug electronics, and adjust thermostat settings to save energy. Get thermal window curtains, and put things on a timer whenever possible to minimize use (such as lights, sprinkler systems, etc).

Reduce Food Waste

Plan meals, store food properly, and use leftovers creatively.

Walk, Bike, or Carpool More Often

Reduce emissions by choosing lower-impact transportation whenever possible.