As we welcome a new year, many of us are reflecting on ways we can improve our well-being and make a more positive impact on the world. Resolutions can be notoriously hard to keep when your new year's optimism wanes and life gets in the way. Building eco-friendly habits is not about making drastic changes overnight but rather taking small, manageable steps that add up over time. So in the spirit of “sticking to it,” here are 10 easy eco-resolutions that will not only benefit the planet but make your life a little bit better, brighter, and more affordable.

 


Unsubscribe from Unwanted Emails

Start your eco-friendly journey by simplifying your digital life. Unsubscribing from unwanted emails not only declutters your inbox but also saves energy and reduces carbon emissions associated with data centers. 



Tote Those Totes

Make it a habit to carry reusable totes and reusable produce bags. Keep a big bag of bags in your car to ensure you never forget them, and stash a lightweight, compactable bag (like Baggu) in your purse or backpack so you always have it for spontaneous stops. This small change eliminates the need for single-use plastic bags, and saves you on the bag fees that are now the norm in many states.



Recycle Loose Plastic at Your Local Grocery Store

When those plastic bags are unavoidable (or accidental), you can still ensure they get recycled. Make a habit of collecting loose plastic and recycling it at your local grocery store collection bins. Note: loose plastic isn’t just found at the checkout counter – any loose plastic can be recycled, like bread bags, shipping bags, and polybags from apparel packaging.

 


Switch from Bottles to Bars
Upgrade your personal care routine by switching from liquid to solid products at your sinks and showers. Swap liquid soap for bar soap and bottled shampoo and conditioner for bars, eliminating plastic packaging and promoting a cleaner alternative. This simple switch is kind to both your body and the environment.


Swap Packaged Foods for Whole Foods

Stick to the perimeter of the grocery store and explore bulk bins for fresh, whole, and package-free foods. Choosing whole foods over packaged options not only benefits the environment but also promotes a healthier and more mindful approach to nutrition.



Embrace Meatless Mondays

Dip your toes into plant-based eating by dedicating Mondays to meatless meals. This resolution not only reduces your carbon footprint but also introduces you to a world of delicious and nutritious plant-based options, which are often more affordable too.



Clean Up Your Laundry and Dish Products

Opt for laundry and dish products in powder or tablet form instead of plastic bottles. Steer clear of pods or sheets, which still contain plastic coatings and ingredients that pollute water systems. This switch reduces plastic waste and ensures your cleaning routine aligns with your commitment to sustainability.



Try Cloth Napkins and Towels

Ditch disposable napkins and plastic towels for sustainable alternatives. Invest in everyday cocktail cloth napkins (like these) and spruce up your table at the same time. Swap paper towels for bar towels which are affordable when you buy in bulk at Costco, and don’t require any specialized set up.



Seal It with Silicone

Say goodbye to plastic wrap and embrace silicone stretch covers for bowls and pans. Additionally, invest in reusable silicone bags for a waste-free alternative to disposable plastic bags. These options create a tighter seal, keeping your food fresh and the environment happy.



Bottle It Up

Join the trend of using Stanley cups and opt for reusable bottles for your beverages. Fill up your cup with water and other drinks free of microplastics, contributing to a cleaner environment and a healthier you.
 


Building sustainable habits is a journey, and every small step counts. Overtime, these 10 easy eco-friendly resolutions will become second nature, leading to positive changes for both you and the planet. Remember, starting small and gradually working towards bigger goals is the key to lasting change. Here's to a greener, more sustainable you in the new year!