New Year’s Resolutions (Zero Waste Style)

PEOPLE, it’s almost 2018! Can you believe it?! I am pretty shocked…how did I miss 2017? Maybe I blacked out as a result of the political upheaval here in the USA and am finally waking up.  Now that 2018 is right around the corner I think it’s a perfect time to talk about New Year’s resolutions – zero waste style.

If you are looking to start implementing zero waste lifestyle techniques, or up your zero waste game to the next level, here are some ideas you can tackle in 2018.

Refuse the straw!

Stop sipping on straws in 2018. Why? Straws are one kind of single use plastic. You sip on that straw one time and then it becomes trash. And straws are made of plastic and do not biodegrade in the landfill, therefore hanging around on the earth way past your lifetime. Straws are also infamous for ending up in our oceans and waterways and polluting our natural areas.

Decrease your intake of animal products

The American meat industry emits more greenhouse gases than all transportation industries COMBINED. Shocking! If you decrease your consumption of meat and dairy you will make a huge impact on the environment. Intimidated about making the switch to a vegan or vegetarian diet? Start with “meatless Mondays”  where you don’t eat any meat on Mondays. If that’s too easy, try eating all of your dinners vegetarian or vegan.

Carry your own zero waste kit

Set yourself up for success by carrying some essential zero waste items in your purse/bicycle bag/backpack/car. By doing so, you will always have your zero waste items handy for that random stop at a restaurant, coffee shop, or bakery. My kit includes a cloth napkin, a bamboo cutlery set, a reusable to go container, a mason jar, and a coffee mug.

Host one zero waste meetup* in 2018

It is extremely important to spread the word about sustainable living. I believe that if enough people are engaged in the zero waste movement, we can combat climate change. So it is up to all of us to provide the opportunity for others to become involved in this movement, and meetups are a great way to get people together to begin learning about this lifestyle. It’s up to you to be the change and inspire others!

*A meetup is an opportunity for people to gather to learn and discuss aspects of zero waste. They can be at a coffee shop, restaurant, or other venue and have as much structure as you want.

Happy 2018 everyone!