Each year, we find ourselves making New Year’s Resolutions to become a better version of ourselves. It’s time for us to not only think about bettering our health, but our planet. Becoming more environmentally conscious not only helps us live a healthy lifestyle, but encourages others to take part in actions that benefit the planet. In the shift to a green world/economy, here are some New Year’s Resolutions you should consider making in 2025 for a sustainable future.
No Shopping!! (Buying Less Clothes)
It is no joke that fashion and clothing are one of the biggest polluters on the planet. Each year, 85% of textiles go to landfill every year. The best way you can help over consumption is by buying less clothes. Another benefit of buying less is that it gives you the opportunity to build a capsule wardrobe that you can build with unique pieces from thrift stores and sustainably produced clothing companies. Not buying clothes is a big challenge for most to overcome, but making the step to do research on were your clothes are coming from is also very important.
Get Involved in your Community Green Spaces
From cities to suburbs, most areas have a local green space that is taken care of by local citizens like yourself. Whether it’s your backyard or a community garden, getting involved in growing vegetables or planting trees is a great way to give back to the planet. Not only are you beautifying your community, but you are helping in the cycle of a self-sustaining community. Take the time this year to find something you care about close to home. If you don’t have a community green space, get a group of friends together and make your own!
New Year, New Diet?
While there are many stigmas about vegan/vegetarian diets, there is no shame in trying to eat more vegetables. The meat industry not only produces 14.5% of greenhouse gas emissions, red meat has been shown to increase the risk of heart disease. The change from eating meat to none is not that practical for all, so starting simple by having ‘Meatless Mondays’ can have so many benefits in itself to your health and the planet.
Support Small Businesses
In addition to not buying clothes, try to buy your essentials locally. Your nearest farmers market can be home to many small businesses who make their products locally. Social Media is also a great place to find artisans that make unique items for yourself or for gifts.
Minimize Waste
Choosing the non-plastic option is good for your health and good for the planet, but zero-waste can be intimidating. By doing small changes and finding what works the best for you is a great way to use less plastic. For example, instead of buying plastic utensils, invest in the metal ones. Instead of using a plastic water bottle, get a water bottle and/or water filter. These swaps can feel pricey, but in reality you are saving money- buying the item once and then you have it forever!
Drive Less, Sustainable Transport More
When having the option between driving, walking, or public transit, find an option that best suits you and the environment. The beauty of public transport and walking is that you get to see your city and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time.
Conserve Energy/Water
Taking shorter showers or turning off lights when you’re not in the room are small things that can help save power and energy. Even if we have the option for renewable energy or rainwater storage, doing the best you can to help conserve resources is a step forward.
Educate Yourself
Take the time to find out more information on current issues impacting the world. Start small by looking into environmental issues in your own community. Even on a small scale can we make a difference, but it starts with teaching ourselves and others.
Encourage Others to Join You!
If we want to live in a sustainable world we need to rely on each other. If you want to become more eco-conscious, don’t be afraid to share with your friends and family. Going on this journey for others not only helps you stick to your goals, it helps expand the idea of sustainable living. The more we talk about ways we can help the planet, the more action there can be done on a larger scale.
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