“Green” Resolutions to Make This Year, Articles, living

“Green” Resolutions to Make This Year

by Émilie Carignan
published January 21, 2010

rating: (39 Ratings)

We respect and appreciate socially-responsible companies who do their best to help our planet… but do we make similar efforts in our own lives? It’s wise to opt for a lifestyle that is respectful of the planet and its valuable resources. Here are five “green” resolutions to adopt in 2011, as well as a few tips to help achieve them!

1- PRESERVE WATER

Water is a limited resource and we’re very lucky to have 24/7 access to it. Try your best to use it wisely and not to waste it!

Practical examples: Take a shower instead of a bath, as the latter wastes much more water; don’t forget to turn off the tap while you brush your teeth or wash your face; avoid watering your lawn unnecessarily and let nature do its job!

2- REUSE AND RECYCLE

Have you become an expert at recycling over the years? Fantastic, but perhaps the act of reusing items is foreign to you. Most people are used to tossing out objects that can actually have a second life. Try to use your imagination!

Practical examples: Instead of cellophane, consider reusing the plastic sheets that cover fruit and vegetable punnets; try and repair damaged clothing instead of tossing them out; avoid buying individually-packaged foods and buy items in bulk, which can then be divided in Tupperware containers.

3- BLACKLIST PRODUCTS

Certain products just shouldn’t be in our homes, period. , Isn’t it surprising to realize that some items you once thought indispensable are actually unnecessary?!

Practical examples: Paper towels can be replaced with washable and reusable cloths and towels; filtered water pitchers can be used instead of buying cases of bottled water; and why use plastic bags while you shop for groceries when you can carry around gorgeous canvas bags?

4- LIMIT DISTANCES

The environment will benefit from reducing the distances you travel, as well as from the smaller amounts of fuel necessary to do so. What’s more, staying close will help your local economy and the producers near you!

Practical examples: This tip works for food, clothing, and various other locally-made products. There are many local initiatives that you can take, such as buying locally-grown food from nearby farms; and shopping at fashion boutiques that feature wares from local (and eco-friendly) designers.

5- KEEP ENERGY AT A MINIMUM

Many energy sources are used to keep a typical North American home functioning. Heating, lighting, electronics and appliances; they not only consume a lot of energy, but increase your monthly bills, too!

Practical examples: In winter, lower the heating in the house when you’re out; same goes for lighting, turn off the lights whenever you exit a room; also, wait to do laundry until you have a full load and hang clothes out to dry when weather permits.

Tag(s): living, eco-friendly, resolutions