New Year’s Resolutions for a Sustainable Earth in 2012

Posted on Jan 4, 2012 in Sustainable Living & Sustainable Lifestyle by Matthew Speer 0 Comments

Welcome to 2012, the year of the Dragon according to the Chinese Zodiac, signifying success and happiness while giving you the power of change. Whether you are new to sustainable living or a seasoned greenie, we can all resolve to live sustainably and help friends and family go green. 2012 brings with it a fresh start, an opportunity to deepen your commitment to a sustainable earth and saving money at the same time.

As we look back at 2011, sometimes we may have forgotten to recycle those soda cans, left the reusable bags in the car when going to the grocery store or missed an opportunity to support friends on their green journey. As we step into the New Year we must forgive our imperfections and learn from the mistakes made in the past. Instead, focus on what you did achieve and the abilities you have to make a difference by investing in yourself and the world around you.

Resolutions for a Green and Sustainable 2012

Now for the exciting part, finding what new green endeavors you will embark on in 2012. What new adventures and energy efficient activities are in your future? What green habits will you commit to strengthening as part of a sustainable lifestyle? Here are few ideas to help get the ball rolling.

Stop using paper towels and napkins. Cloth napkins are not just for special occasions; they can and should be used daily in lieu of paper products. The amount of energy used to clean cloth napkins and rags is far smaller and less toxic than the production of paper products.
Use green cleaning products. When washing those cloth napkins and rags or even just cleaning your bathroom, green cleaning products offer a more sustainable option. The mixture of biodegradable and recyclable packaging with non-toxic solutions makes for an excellent choice.
Use reusable shopping bags. We discuss this at length in our previous reusable bags article, this has a dramatic effect on landfills and burning of fossil fuels. It is also one of the easiest resolutions to follow.
Don’t buy bottled water, ever! Bottled water is an absolute waste; much of it simply filtered tap water anyway. If you need water on the go pick up a reusable sports bottle and fill it up as needed.
Spread the sustainable living word. Share your experiences with friends and family; help them understand that going green does not mean uprooting everything they know. Simple lifestyle changes often lead to money savings and can make a difference to the environment around you. Tweet about your savings, volunteer to teach others how to go green or start a recycling campaign at your office.

This is your time! 2012 offers you a fresh start with no limitations other than your own limiting beliefs. Going green in 2012 can be easy and help save you some cash along the way but you have to resolve that a sustainable earth is within your grasp. Happy New Year and may this year bring you and your family health and happiness.

Have better green resolutions? Leave some comments and let us know!

Image: Sarunyu_foto