We’ve created 12 things that you can implement in your everyday activities for you to have a positive environmental impact all year long.
As the new year begins, one of your resolutions might be to do more for the planet. Simply considering this goal is already a great step forward. Remember, every action you take—whether big or small—will positively impact the environment. Not only will it help ease your eco-anxiety, but it will also bring you closer to ticking off your New Year’s resolutions.
We’ve created a list of environmental actions you can take every month this year.
January – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
- Kick off the year by decluttering your home. Donate items you no longer need and focus on reusing and recycling what you can. Make a conscious effort not to buy anything new (unless you desperately need it). Consider creating a compost bin for organic waste or enrol in a compost program run by your city or municipality.
February – Go Paperless
- Go digital to reduce paper waste. Opt for electronic billing, read books or newspapers online, and use digital notes instead of paper.
March – Plant Trees or Start a Garden
- Celebrate spring by planting trees, starting a garden in your backyard, or even inside your home. If it’s still winter where you live, consider planting indoor seedlings, which can be repotted and planted outdoors when the weather gets warmer.
April – Sustainable Transportation
- Make an effort to walk, bike, or use public transportation instead of driving alone. Consider switching to an electric vehicle or carpooling to reduce your carbon footprint if possible.
May – Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
- Replace conventional cleaning products with eco-friendly alternatives. Look for natural, non-toxic products or use ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.
June – Reduce Water Usage
- Focus on conserving water by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using water-efficient appliances. Consider collecting rainwater for outdoor plants. Many cities will provide a rainwater barrel to help reduce water usage.
July – Support Sustainable Brands
- Commit to buying from brands that prioritize sustainability. Look for products made from recycled materials, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical production processes.
August – Green Energy at Home
- Explore renewable energy options for your home, such as solar panels or wind energy. If this isn’t possible, consider switching to a green energy provider. Even reducing air conditioning usage can make a difference.
September – Minimize Food Waste
- Make a plan to reduce food waste by meal planning, properly storing food, and composting food scraps. Get creative with leftovers and share excess produce with neighbours.
October – Go Meatless for the Month
- Try adopting a plant-based diet for the month to reduce your environmental impact. Meat production is resource-intensive and produces a significant amount of greenhouse gases. Many grocery stores and restaurants now offer meatless options, making this goal much more attainable.
November – Reduce Single-Use Plastics
- Reduce your plastic consumption by switching to reusable bags, bottles, and containers. Some stores and restaurants will offer discounts if you bring your own mug or container. Avoid products with excessive plastic packaging.
December – Eco-Friendly Holidays
- Celebrate the holidays with a focus on sustainability. Opt for experiences over gifts, wrap presents in reusable materials, and reduce energy use by switching to LED lights and unplugging decorations when not in use.
By dedicating each month to a different initiative, you’ll steadily progress toward a more sustainable lifestyle throughout the year. Remember, missing a month or not following this guide perfectly is okay. Every effort matters. Simply reading our Happy Eco News articles, subscribing to our newsletter, and checking out our eco-calendar are all positive steps in the right direction.
We hope this year brings you closer to your environmental goals. The planet thanks you.