The new year has arrived. As are most folks, Richard and I are thinking about how to live more positively in the year ahead. It is always challenging to keep up your new year goals, but in times like these, when doing the right thing is being challenged by those in power, it’s hard to feel hopeful. That fact makes every little bit we can do all the more important! One way to move forward is to believe that, together, we can ease the burden of humanity’s heavy footprint on the planet, and have a great time doing it.
Ideas for sustainable living are everywhere- on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, YouTube, and other platforms. It can feel overwhelming. But just making one simple positive habit tends to birth new ideas. So jump in and make your first commitment. I suggest starting simple, and if it feels good, build on that first act.
Here are some ideas:
- If you are getting takeout meals for home, make sure not to take the plasticware. Look in the bag and return them to the establishment if they failed to follow your request.
- Reuse the to-go containers in lieu of plastic baggies for packing up lunches.
- Compost your cardboard. You can even flatten it up and stack it somewhere out of the way. Check back a year or so later, and you’ll find the worms and bugs have turned it into dirt!
- Leave your dandelions be. Better yet, encourage them. Bees will be looking for nectar when they emerge in spring, and dandelions make a good early source.
When I find some cool way to deal with trash, one that helps spare some weight to the planet and provides a benefit, it makes me feel like I’m brainy and industrious. I get free stuff, help the environment, and save money. Yeah, I did that. It puts a little pep in my walk.
I bet you have some ideas, too. I’d love to hear them! In the meantime, Happy New Year. Let’s make it an incredible one.