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Photo Credit: Lori Sullivan

It’s that time of year – New Years Resolutions. I find the first week of the new year to be a great one for setting goals for the year ahead. From eating better to exercising to slowing down to enjoy life a little more, the season allows reflection on what is going well and what changes are desired. I also believe that change doesn’t happen all at once. I believe setting smaller goals each month and spreading things out across the year has a better chance of getting accomplished. Too much, too fast and you just give up.

So, when it comes to green resolutions for 2010, I would recommend you think about your overall goals for the year and determine how those goals could be just a shade greener. I’ve put together a list that crosses many different categories – traditional resolution categories as well as more green specific initiatives. I’m hoping you will find several ideas here that would work well in your life. These are just a few ideas to get you started this year – keep your eyes out for more ideas as the year goes on. Best wishes for a happy new year and making 2010 “One Shade Greener” than 2009!

Recycling

  • Review current recycling and add one or two new items to the list.
  • Look at my communities recycling guidelines and ensure I’m following them.
  • Begin to compost.

Energy Saving

  • Turn the thermostat down 2 degrees in the winter and up 2 degrees in the summer.
  • Switch light bulbs to compact fluorescents (as bulbs burn out),

Water Conservation

  • Install water saving devices – low flow showerheads, low flow toilets, etc.
  • Install a rain barrel to collect water for outdoor needs.
  • Run sprinklers less this summer or not at all.
  • Reduce the flow of water when rinsing dishes, fruits/vegetables, etc.
  • Shorten the length of my shower by 1-2 minutes

Daily Habits

  • Take my own mug to the coffee shop. Or, better yet, brew my own at home!
  • Take reusable bags when I go shopping.
  • Pack a waste free lunch. If I eat out, I will be conscious of the packaging.

Reduce Toxins at Home and Work

  • Switch my cleaning and laundry products to an eco-friendly alternative.
  • Add a few plants throughout the house (or my desk at work) to improve the air quality.
  • Use the dry cleaner less and look for a chemical free alternative.

Food and Drinks

  • Stop drinking bottled water.
  • Limit carry out to once a week or less and seek out minimal/recyclable packaging.
  • Shop for organic, locally grown foods.
  • Consider “Meatless Mondays”

Exercise

  • Get outdoors – run, hike, walk, bike – enjoy the exercise and eliminate electricity use
  • Look for alternatives that don’t require “equipment”

Purchasing Products

  • Be more conscious of purchases and consider if you really need to buy the item.
  • Consider alternative sources for products – Craigslist, resale shops, etc.
  • Look for recycled products and consider the recyclability of what you buy.

At the Office

  • If your company doesn’t have a green/sustainability team – start one!
  • Review energy use and look for savings opportunities.
  • Cut down on personal paper use – think before printing, focus on electronic filing
  • Add plants to improve air quality
  • Assess opportunities to recycle office/manufacturing waste
  • Read a book or follow blogs online for specific ideas and inspiration in your industry.