With the year drawing to a close, maybe you’re thinking that 2022 is the time to start making a difference. Making some positive changes for the New Year is a great way to start the new year off. Resolutions can help you stay positive and determined. We’ve put together some sustainable new year’s resolutions that anyone can do. And you’ll be helping save the planet at the same time.
Shop locally
Keeping it local reduces fuel. Transporting goods is a huge source of greenhouse emissions. Try shopping for seasonal vegetables grown locally. Then you know exactly where they’ve come from and how far they’ve travelled.
Eat less meat
Meat production accounts for almost 60% of all global greenhouse gases. That’s twice the amount plant-based food produces. Beef production is particularly bad. Grazing animals requires a lot of land, not only for grazing but for growing animal feed.
Most of the world’s cropland grows animal feed. And livestock produces methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. A single kilo of wheat emits 2.5kg of greenhouse gases while a single kilo of beef emits 70kg.
Carpool
Carpooling is easier than ever with plenty of companies competing for business. BlaBlaCar and Liftshare.com are two companies operating in the UK. Try discussing carpooling with co-workers and friends. You may find someone on your route willing to join you. Or consider becoming a carpool driver yourself.
Swap one disposable item for a reusable alternative
More and more people are turning to alternative reusable items. Some great options include:
- Utensils. Instead of picking up plastic cutlery every time you grab a salad, carry your own. Etsy has a wide range of great products. But you could simply bring some from home.
- Plastic bags. Keep a tote or grocery bag handy everywhere you go. Start using reusable bags for bulk items and produce.
- Razors. Ditch the plastic and get yourself a good ol’ fashioned razor.
- Fast fashion. Check if that item of clothing you really want is available second-hand. Or limit the number of brand new items you buy. There are plenty of sustainable clothing brands to choose from these days.
Stop phantom power
Phantom power (AKA vampire power) is the energy your appliances use when plugged in, even when not in use. It accounts for almost a quarter of a homeowner’s total energy bill. The biggest culprits are coffee makers, laptop chargers, microwaves, televisions and stereos.
While your fridge needs to be plugged in all the time, many others can be unplugged. Reduce phantom power by identifying and unplugging your devices. Or go a step further and track your power usage with an electricity usage monitor device.
These are our top 5 sustainable new year’s resolutions. But we want to hear your tips. What are you doing to make 2022 your most sustainable year yet? Log in to join the conversation.