As you make your New Year’s resolutions, keep the environment in mind. Read on for inspiration so that you can kick off 2025 with a resolution that embraces a more sustainable lifestyle.
Here are 25 Environmentally Responsible New Year’s resolutions that are actually achievable!
- Recycle! It might sound obvious, but always recycle when and where you can.
- Don’t be a “wish-cycler.” Items like garden hoses and old tangled strings of Christmas lights don’t belong in the recycling bin.
- Don’t ever bag recyclables – keep recyclables loose.
- Break it down. Make sure to separate and break down boxes before placing them in your recycling cart.
- Empty, Clean and Dry! Let that be your recycling motto.
- Make a shopping list before you head to the grocery store to help cut down on food waste.
- Reuse over single-use. Investing in a reusable coffee cup or water bottle is a very basic way you can lead a more sustainable life.
- Bring your own bag when grocery shopping to reduce plastic bag consumption.
- Go paperless. Sign up for paperless billing and statements.
- Donate or sell useable goods. Give your old clothing and shoes a new life by donating them.
- Shop locally.
- Ditch the single-use dinnerware. Pro Tip: Next time you order take-out, tell the restaurant you don’t need the disposable cutlery!
- Start composting. Curious about composting? Learn more here.
- Saving leftovers is a no-brainer when it comes to cutting back on food waste.
- Grow your own food – Gardening is a win-win – organic locally grown produce and a connection with nature.
- Power down – Turn lights and devices off when not in use.
- Replace traditional light bulbs with LED bulbs.
- Always dispose of lithium batteries at hazardous waste collection locations or with designated retailers. Visit RepublicServices.com/LithiumBatteries for more information about safely disposing of lithium batteries.
- Recycle your old electronics responsibly. Getting a new device is always fun and exciting, and you can double that feel-good mood by ensuring your old one is recycled the right way.
- Repair, don’t despair! Fixing items is a great way to reduce consumption and a lot more rewarding than buying the same thing over and over again!
- Be water-wise – Fix those leaky faucets!
- Walk or bike instead of driving your car for short trips. A little exercise is good for your body and mind!
- Carpool whenever possible or take public transportation to cut back on emissions.
- Teach kids about sustainability. We have resources to help you – check out RecyclingSimplified.com.
- Volunteer for an annual cleanup event. The planet needs you!