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.