As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our habits and make positive changes that not only benefit us but also contribute to the well-being of our planet. Embracing eco friendly resolutions is a fantastic way to start the year with purpose and mindfulness. Here are 20 inspiring resolutions to help you make a difference and live a more sustainable lifestyle in the coming year.
20 Ideas For New Year Eco Friendly Resolutions
1. Embrace Plant-Based Eating
Transitioning to a plant-based diet or incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine can help lower your carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable food system.
Example resolution: I will have x number meat free days per week.
Get inspired with these vegetarian dinner ideas!
2. Conserve Water
Be mindful of your water usage by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth. Conserving water is crucial for the environment.
Example resolution: I will keep my shower time under 5 minutes.
3. Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Pledge to cut down on single-use plastics by opting for reusable bags, water bottles, and containers. This small change can have a significant impact on reducing plastic pollution.
Example resolution: I will refuse plastic bags/ disposable coffee cups/ plastic straws (choose one).
Make a plan for when things go wrong like dining in if you forget your reusable keep cup or loading groceries from the shopping cart to the car loose if you forget reusable bags.
Check out Plastic Free July for more inspiration on how to reduce single use plastic consumption.
4. Choose Sustainable Fashion
Support ethical and sustainable fashion brands, or explore second-hand and vintage shops to reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion.
Example resolutions: I will not buy any new clothes for x months.
5. Go Paperless
Embrace a digital lifestyle by opting for e-bills, e-tickets, and e-books. Minimize paper usage to save trees and reduce the demand for paper production.
Example resolution: I will switch all my bills to e-bills.
6. Practice Eco-Friendly Transportation
Choose walking, cycling, carpooling, or public transportation over personal vehicles to reduce air pollution and decrease your carbon emissions.
Example resolution: I will switch one car trip to walk/cycle/public transport once per week.
7. Create a Green Space
Dedicate a corner of your living space or start a small garden to grow your own herbs or vegetables. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also provides fresh, homegrown produce.
Example resolution: I will keep a plant alive for the whole year.
8. Switch to Renewable Energy
If possible, invest in renewable energy sources for your home, such as solar panels or wind energy, to reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. Although a worthwhile commitment, this is a costly one and not practical for many. Alternatively, reduce your energy consumption (no. 15) or use your voice to encourage governments to set ambitious renewable energy targets (no. 17).
Example resolutions: I will install solar panels this year.
9. Waste Less Food
Plan meals, store food properly, and compost kitchen waste to minimize food wastage. This not only conserves resources but also reduces methane emissions from decomposing food in landfills.
Example resolution: I will plan my meals each week, including plans for the leftovers.
10. Support Local Businesses
Choose local products to support your community and reduce the carbon footprint associated with the transportation of goods over long distances.
Example resolution: I will choose foods that have been made in my local area or country whenever possible (read the labels).
11. Practice Mindful Consumption
Before making a purchase, consider the lifespan and environmental impact of the product. Opt for quality over quantity and choose items that are durable and repairable.
Example resolution: I will wait 24 hours to purchase an item after first seeing it to make sure I have properly considered its necessity.
12. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Make the switch to environmentally friendly cleaning products that are non-toxic and biodegradable, reducing the impact of harmful chemicals on ecosystems.
Example resolution: I will swap to eco friendly cleaning products.
13. Contribute to Wildlife Conservation
Support organizations working towards wildlife conservation or take part in local initiatives to protect and preserve natural habitats for biodiversity.
Example resolution: I will volunteer with or donate to a wildlife conservation organisation.
14. Educate Yourself
Stay informed about environmental issues and solutions. Educate yourself on sustainable practices and share your knowledge with others to inspire collective action. Follow sustainability blogs and influencers to learn new information and ideas while you scroll.
Example resolution: I will read one article about environmental issues per month.
15. Reduce Energy Consumption
Turn off lights, unplug electronics when not in use, and use energy-efficient appliances to reduce your overall energy consumption at home.
Example resolution: I will reduce my energy bill by 10%. (This one will save you money too!)
16. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives
Join local clean-up events to help keep your community and natural spaces litter-free. Taking action on a grassroots level can have a positive impact on the environment.
Example resolution: I will pick up rubbish when I see it and dispose of it thoughtfully.
17. Support Renewable Energy Policies
Advocate for and support policies that promote the development and use of renewable energy sources at local and national levels.
Example resolution: I will write to my local government representative to ask that action is taken on transitioning to renewable energy.
18. Learn to Repair
Instead of discarding broken items, learn to repair them. Whether it’s clothing, electronics, or furniture, extending the lifespan of products reduces waste.
Example resolution: I will learn basic sewing skills.
Start with this quick tutorial of essential mending techniques:
19. Host Eco-Friendly Gatherings
When planning events or gatherings, choose sustainable options for decorations, tableware, and catering to minimize the environmental impact of the occasion.
Example resolution: I will not use balloons for decorations this year.
Check out these eco friendly party decorations as alternatives to balloons.
20. Inspire Others
Lead by example and encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to adopt eco-friendly practices. Collective efforts can bring about positive change on a larger scale.
Example resolution: I will share my eco friendly resolutions with others.
Make an eco friendly resolution today to work towards a sustainable future.
By incorporating these 20 eco friendly resolutions into your daily life, you not only contribute to a healthier planet but also set a positive example for others to follow. Remember, small changes can lead to significant outcomes when embraced by a community dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Here’s to a greener and more environmentally conscious New Year!