sustainable new year’s resolutions
2023 has been a big year for environmental news. From climate disasters like extreme flooding in the DRCand an unprecedented wildfire in Hawai’i, to climate wins such as the COP28 agreement to transition away from fossil fuels, it has been a year of fear and devastation, but also of hope.
It could be argued that time is a construct and 2024 will bring us more of the same, good and bad.
But I think there’s something powerful about the transition between years. We’re given perspective, time to reflect, and the opportunity to consider how our future can be different.
I’m usually not that big on New Year’s resolutions – I think that pressuring yourself to make big and sudden life changes is counterproductive – but when it comes to sustainability, I feel that they can be a valuable tool.
Last year I resolved to eliminate as much plastic as possible from my bathroom and I ended up finding some great zero-waste brands. I also resolved to start writing about environmentalism and ecology and this blog has been one of the highlights of my year.
So if you’re looking for inspiration for how to help the planet this coming year, here is a list of New Year’s resolutions that I think can be sustainable for you and the Earth.
Individual Level
Reduce plastic consumption: Look for products without plastic packaging, buy in bulk at the grocery store, or learn how to make things from scratch. The bathroom is a great place to start. My favorite no- and low-waste beauty and wellness brands are HiBAR shampoo and conditioner, DIME Beauty, and Fat and the Moon.
Eat less meat and dairy: Animal agriculture has an enormous carbon footprint. Consider reducing your meat and dairy consumption in the new year, even if it’s just a couple times per week.
Take public transit: It might be obvious, but public transportation really is the more sustainable option. You don’t need to Uber everywhere! Take the train or ride your bike.
Lower your screen time: While it has a relatively small impact, using and charging our electronic devices does produce carbon emissions. Plus less time on your phone means you have more time to go outside and touch some grass.
Stay informed: Ignorance might be bliss, it’s really important to stay up to date on climate news. Take the time to understand what is going on in the world so you’re prepared to help.
Community Level
Support local businesses and farms: Take a trip to the farmer’s market to support food production in your community. And shopping locally helps you avoid large-scale corporations with harmful environmental practices (like Amazon).
Participate in community initiatives: Does your neighborhood have a community garden? A trash pickup day? Every year, my community organizes a week of education and cleanup of our local river, and I participate whenever I can.
Stay politically aware: Local politics are a great medium for having voice heard. Contact your representatives, organize in your community, and make sure you vote to support environmentally-friendly initiatives.
Global Level
Take political action: Participate in protests, sign petitions, vote. Apply pressure to the government to take climate action. If enough of us demand change, they do have to listen.
Be a global ally: All climate issues are interconnected. Understand how decisions made here in the U.S. impact people and ecosystems in vulnerable parts of the world. Respect and learn from Indigenous traditions. Advocate for those who aren’t afforded a seat at the political table.
These resolutions are just a start, inspiration for the new year. I hope that whether you make a New Year’s resolution or not, the planet will be at the forefront of your mind.
As for me, I intend to keep writing in 2024. I’m going to share pressing climate news, perspectives on ecology and environmentalism, and fun stories from the Arizona backcountry.
See you then. In the meantime, Happy New Year!