(Disclaimer:This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. I will only recommend products that I genuinely believe in) Learn more.
Like every year, when a new year comes we start thinking about resolutions to better ourselves for the coming year.
But in this article, I am going to talk about eco-friendly resolutions, that can help our environment and also future generations.
I have been living an eco-friendly lifestyle for a few years now. so I can confidently tell, how these small changes in our lifestyles can make positive changes.
When I say sustainable resolutions, I don’t mean you need to suddenly change your lifestyle. You can start with smaller steps and as you become comfortable, you can explore more.
So here I am going to share with you 10 sustainable New Year resolutions for the coming year, that you can give a try. These tips are simple, also doable, and definitely going to help for the greener future.
1. Reduce Energy Consumption
In cities like New Jersey, where I live, winters can be harsh, so the whole heating thing is kind of important.
A simple change that I implemented is buying a smart thermostat that automatically adjusted the temperature ensuring no energy was wasted.
Energy-efficient appliances can save the average household about 25% on their utility bills, & they leave a lighter footprint at both ends of power production. It saves money and is better for the planet.
Here are some simple tips:
– Swap out incandescent bulbs for LED lights
– Prevent phantom energy by unplugging electronics that are not in use.
– If available then switch to renewable energy sources, like wind or solar. There are many firms in the U.S. that provide green energy plans so you can sign up for this clean and renewable power source.
2. Adopt a Zero-Waste Lifestyle
For the past few years, I have been navigating how to minimize my waste — and it is easier than you would believe.
The important thing is to do it one step at a time. At first, I just replaced some of the single-use plastics with reusables: water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags.
Did you know the average American produces more than 4 pounds of trash PER DAY? That works out to more than 1,500 pounds of waste per person every year.
Here are a few easy swaps:
– Bring reusable bags for shopping.
– Swap Paper Towels for Cloth Napkins
– Buy in bulk and use your own containers to eliminate even more packaging waste.
Check out 10 easy zero-waste swaps for everyday items.
3. Embrace a Plant-Based Diet
I’m not fully vegan, but I’ve drastically reduced my meat consumption and it feels good. In a study by the University of Oxford, 73% reductions in food-related emissions could be made, if the world shifts to plant-based diets.
It’s a small shift with a massive impact on the environment. Not to mention – I feel so much better, and more alert after filling up on healthy plant-based foods!
Here’s what worked for me:
– Begin with Meatless Mondays and slowly work plant-based eating into your week.
– Purchase fresh, sustainable produce from local farmers’ markets
– Explore delicious plant-based recipes, from veggie stir-fries to hearty lentil soups.
4. Make Sustainable Fashion Choices
The environment is so important (fast fashion being a huge polluter) and for me, not going out to buy lots of new clothes each month has been SUCH a worthwhile challenge.
I have also gotten into thrift shopping, instead of buying new all the time and it is fun to reduce our carbon footprint. In fact, extending the life of a garment by just 9 months reduces its environmental impact by 20-30%
Here’s what you can do:
– Buy second-hand or opt for clothing swaps with friends
– Follow ethical and environmentally conscious brands, mine uses eco-friendly materials made from recycled bottles for sustainability.
-Get clothes mended rather than chucking them after their first hole.
5. Support Sustainable Transportation
Living in New Jersey, I’m lucky to have access to public transportation, but I also try to walk or bike whenever possible. If you’re in an area where public transport isn’t an option, consider carpooling or switching to an electric vehicle
The U.S. is experiencing a big jump in electric vehicle (EV) sales, and it’s nice to see how we move towards healthful transportation.
EVs can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately one-half versus traditional autos.
Some suggestions for transportation greener alternatives include:
– Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transportation whenever possible.
– Pool your ride or seek a lift to keep the cars off-road.
– If you are planning for a new car, get an electric vehicle. In many states, incentives and rebates are also available for electric cars, now.
6. Conserve Water
Saving water is a big part of my sustainable routine. In fact, I installed a low-flow showerhead and it’s made a noticeable difference in my water bill.
I have also recently taken to harvesting rainwater for garden irrigation — It is completely free and environmentally friendly after all!
The EPA reports the average American household uses over 300 gallons of water each day. Small changes do indeed culminate in making a big difference.
So, the only way to do this is by saving water.
– Install water-saver fixtures in your home
– Don’t let the water run while brushing your teeth or doing dishes.
– Utilize rainwater for gardening or outdoor use.
7. Practice Sustainable Travel
We all love a good vacation, but travel can take a toll on the environment. For me, I’ve started focusing on staycations and local trips that reduce my carbon footprint.
Also, whenever I travel to new places, I always try to support local businesses and eco-friendly accommodations.
If you’re planning to travel
– Avoid air travel for distances that can be comfortably covered by bus or train.
– Select green hotels and/or Airbnb accommodations.
– Offset your flight emissions through carbon offset programs.
Also read my detailed posts on Eco-friendly backpacking, Hiking, and Camping.
8. Minimalism and Mindful Consumption
Minimalism is something that I have been adapting to, for some years now. Rather than constantly purchasing new things I look for quality over quantity.
I have found that this has really made me eliminate waste and purchases which would just be done without any thought. If you buy less, there is less to clutter your life, less waste, and ultimately far too much stress.
Also, read my detailed article on how buying in bulk helps reduce wastage.
It also leads to more conscious consumption, which helps me prioritize what is really important in life.
Here’s how to get started:
– Ask yourself, “Do I really need to buy that?
– De-clutter your house and donate stuff you do not use.
– Buy quality products and focus on longevity.
9. Grow Your Own Food
One of my small, yet rewarding changes was setting up a little veggie garden on the balcony. Growing your own food, even in a small space, is a fantastic way to reduce your environmental impact. I also have an indoor herbs and microgreens garden.
And who doesn’t love that feel-good feeling after using fresh herbs and veggies in your cooking? If you don’t have a yard, try container or vertical gardening instead.
Try these ideas:
– Start small with herbs like basil, mint, or parsley.
– If you have a yard, consider a vegetable garden with tomatoes, cucumbers, or peppers.
– Use compost from your kitchen scraps to nourish your plants.
10. Get Involved in Environmental Activism
So, how have you found networking with other eco-enthusiasts like yourself? Over here in New Jersey, we have some really great environmental protection organizations.
Joining one has proven to be a great way of meeting folks AND making an impact! Anything from a trash pickup on the beach to advocating for an environmental policy with my local government just makes me feel better about myself at that moment.
This is how you can participate:
– Donate your time to local sustainability-related organizations.
– Support local environmental policy initiatives
– Plant a tree or clean the local community by attending different events.
Living sustainably does not have to be hard or time-consuming. Implementing some of these resolutions into your life will be not only beneficial for the environment but also it can contribute to a better standard of living.
From reducing waste, conserving energy, and even using green transportation — every little action Counts. Let’s make the coming year the year we commit to living greener and inspiring others to do the same!
