Five Easy New Year Resolutions to Make Going Green Easy

New year, new you! Right?

Aside from the occasional new year resolution to go to the gym (diet starts Monday), how about pledging to live a more sustainable lifestyle while preserving the environment? Below are some quick and easy lifestyle changes that will put you on the right path. Whether you decide to focus on just one or going for all five, I am confident you will succeed with just a little bit of effort.

RECYCLE

Make a pledge to recycle whenever you can. Even when you can’t and it may seem a bit inconvenient, remember your pledge and hang on. Next to your trash can at home, place another bin/can/bag (or whatever is convenient for you) next to it and direct all recyclables there. Freshen up on information on how to recycle correctly and what to recycle.

REUSE

Reuse or repurpose items that could usually end up in the landfill. Get yourself a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. Invest in dishes for your homes instead of using disposable paper plates, utensils and cups. And yes, even when family and friends are over.

EAT MORE VEGGIES

I am not saying go completely vegan. I’m only suggesting you eat more veggies and lessen you animal consumption. It is no secret that consuming animal is the leading cause of emissions causing environmental destruction.

If you are already dabbling in plant based diets, it’s time to kick it up enough. Let the fish go.

SHOP LOCAL

Visiting farmers markets is my favorite way to shop local. Not only are you able to handpick fresh produce straight from the far, but you also encounter amazing artisans with sustainable goods.

Shopping local cuts down the travel time of products. It takes days for consumer goods to be shipped, driven or flown to you which all causes emissions from the transport. However, when goods come from your own community/city/state, that makes for less transportation which in return emits less pollutants into the atmosphere.

WATCH YOUR ENERGY

In all senses but that’s too deep for the intro. Back to energy efficiency. Be sure to catch yourself leaving the faucet running while brushing your teeth, washing your face/hands and even your dishes. Watch you water consumption.

Also remember to cut off the lights and electronics when they are not in use. Your energy bill will love you..

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