Twenty Resolutions for a Sustainable 2020
It’s that time of year again: the moment we set goals and aspirations for the months to come, when we start fresh with renewed energy to tackle challenges and make a difference. This January, why not keep the environment in mind? Read on to see what you can do to make our planet a better place.
1. Avoid fast fashion: this type of clothing doesn’t last long, and quickly ends up in landfills. Instead, invest in items from sustainable brands made with higher quality, ethical materials, or visit your favorite thrift store.
2. Never throw away your old clothes. When you clean out your closet, swap items with a friend or donate them to charity.
3. Use reusable tote bags when you shop, and more importantly, keep them in a place that will remind you to bring them along with you. Store several in your car or near the door—this way, you’ll never find yourself in the checkout line without them again!
4. Why stop with tote bags? Skip the plastic produce bags at the grocery store as well. You can easily replace them with affordable canvas or mesh alternatives.
5. Pack your own lunch for work. Not only will this help you eat healthier, you’ll avoid a ton of disposable containers. Invest in a reusable lunch bag and sustainable dishes and cutlery while you’re at it—items like reusable sandwich bags and metal bento boxes are easy to find in stores and online.
6. Bring your own cutlery and leftover containers on outings and trips. If you know you’ll be traveling or going out for a meal, avoid the excess packaging and come prepared with your own storage options.
7. Keep those reusable water bottles and travel mugs handy. We’ve all been there, right? It’s two o’clock, you’re facing the afternoon slump, but you left your thermos at home. Or perhaps you’re thirsty but have nothing to fill up at the water cooler. Try keeping extras in your cubicle or your car so you always have something on hand.
8. Learn how to repair items. If you can darn a sock or fix that pesky toaster, you’ll save them from going to the landfill, and guess what? Your wallet won’t complain either.
9. Buy in bulk. We get it: you might not have a large pantry or a ton of cupboard space, but you don’t need to get carried away here. Simply swap individually bagged snacks for larger items that use less packaging, and make small changes like bringing canvas bags or jars to purchase items like nuts or grains.
10. Incorporate seasonal foods into your grocery list. By doing so, you support the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint. Your meals will also taste fresher.
11. That being said, make a grocery list! Planning your meals and snacks beforehand means you’ll throw less food into the trash later.
12. Start composting. By doing so, you’ll literally give back to the planet. You can’t always avoid food waste, but you can prevent it from going into the trash bin.
13. Shop sustainably. Purchasing items online has become not only easy, but commonplace, and it’s even more convenient when you live in a rural area. When you check out, opt to ship your items all at once to conserve packaging, and consider sites that invest in eco-friendly shipping practices.
14. Recycle, and do it right. If you live in an area with curbside recycling, make sure you’re following city or county guidelines for acceptable materials. If you don’t, check out what your local government, stores, and organizations offer in terms of drop-off options. Places like Kroger and Target even collect plastic bags and film, and your area probably hosts drop-off events for nontraditional materials like paint or electronics.
15. Consider what you purchase. Reducing your waste in the first place is always the best option for the environment. Before you complete any order, ask yourself how long the items in your cart will last and if you really need them after all.
16. Buy secondhand. Thrift stores and antique shops aren’t just for clothes. Spend a day scouring your local area for items like furniture, art, and books. You’ll be surprised how much fun you’ll have, and your style will remain unique.
17. Plant a tree in your yard or community. The air will be cleaner and local wildlife will thank you.
18. Start a garden. You can fill it with native plants for pollinators, eliminate the amount of lawn you need to mow, and even start growing your own food. This goes for apartment dwellers as well. Fresh patio tomatoes or windowsill herbs, anyone?
19. Take part in community events. If you’re interested in making your neighborhood cleaner, greener, and more beautiful, begin by finding which one of our local affiliates is closest to you. (You can also start your own if your area is in need.)
20. Lastly, pass it on—share these tips with your friends and neighbors, and start an environmental revolution!