5 Sustainable Resolutions for 2018

It’s hard to believe that we are already 8 days into the new year. By now, you may have already set a few resolutions for 2018. If you already have goals in hand, or if you are looking for some resolution inspiration, we have a few suggestions for ways you can live more sustainably in 2018.

1. Skip the Straw. According to the 5 Gyres Institute, “plastic straws are one of the top polluters on our beaches.” You can help by stopping your use of plastic straws this year. Instead, carry a reusable or biodegrable straw with you.
2. Ban the Bag. Another simple way to help reduce plastic pollution is by refusing plastic bags. Commit to carrying reusable shopping bags each time you visit a store in 2018 so that you can leave those plastic bags behind.
3. Try Meatless Monday. You may have seen the #meatfreemonday or #meatlessmonday movement on social media. According to the team at Meatless Monday, there are multiple human and environmental health benefits of eating less meat, including minimizing your cancer risk and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. You don’t have to adapt to a full vegan lifestyle, however. Why not resolve to eliminate meat on just one day a week – Monday – during 2018?
4. Carry a (Reusable) Cup. Although the percentage varies by factors such as age and gender, the average adult body is comprised of 60% water, which means staying hydrated during the day is vital to your health. Some of us also need a little caffeine boost in the morning. Before you head out for the day during 2018, be sure to grab a reusable bottle so that you don’t add disposal cups and plastic bottles to the landfill. There are even some collapsible options out there, like the Stojo, which may be easier to carry with that reusable straw and bag!
5. Kill-A-Watt. During 2018, you can not only reduce your environmental footprint but also save money on your energy bill by resolving to use less electricity. Next time a bulb burns out, replace it with a more energy efficient LED bulb. If you have to replace any appliances this year, make sure to buy Energy Star rated models. Each day walk through your residence and unplug any electronics that aren’t in use, because they pull “vampire wattages” from the grid even when turned off.

These are just a few, simple resolutions you can adopt to reduce your environmental footprint in 2018. Pick your favorite and try it out. Even small changes, which are easier to stick to, can make a big impact.