New Year, New Habits
 Sustainable New Year's Resolutions

It’s that time of year when we’re making resolutions for the upcoming year. “New Year, new you,” right? But let’s be honest: most resolutions don’t survive past February. Why? Often, we aim too high with vague goals like “get fit” or “go zero waste,” which can be overwhelming and hard to stick to. Instead of lofty promises, why not try small, actionable changes throughout the year? Little steps can lead to big results.

If living more sustainably is on your radar for 2025, we’ve got you covered. Here are simple, manageable ideas to help you make a positive impact on the planet—one step at a time.

1. Say Goodbye to Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics are a huge environmental problem, but small tweaks in your daily habits can make a big difference:

• Bring reusable bags: Make or buy groceries and produce bags to use instead of plastic ones. Keep them by the door or in your car so you never forget them.
• Ditch bottled water: Invest in a reusable water bottle [1]. If tap water isn’t safe, boil or filter it instead.
• Carry a reusable coffee cup: Even “eco-friendly” disposable cups create waste if not disposed of properly.
• Pack a zero-waste kit: Include bamboo or metal cutlery, a reusable straw, and a container for takeout. It might take practice, but soon it’ll feel natural.

2. Use Less Water and Energy 

Every drop counts, and every watt matters. Here are a few small changes to reduce your footprint:

• Shorten your showers: A quick shower saves both water and energy. Bonus: it’s better for your skin too! [2]
• Turn off the lights: Unplug appliances and switch off lights when you’re not using them [3].
• Hang clothes to dry: Whenever possible, skip the dryer and hang your clothes. It’s gentler on fabrics and the planet.
• Flush smarter: If your toilet has an eco-flush option, use it. No eco-flush? Place a filled bottle in the tank to reduce water per flush.

3. Make Eco-Conscious Food Choices 

Food is one of the easiest ways to live more sustainably:

• Buy local and seasonal: This reduces transportation emissions and supports local farmers [4].
• Cook from scratch: Homemade meals usually come with less packaging and waste.
• Be mindful about meat: Choose ethically raised options, like free-range chicken or grass-fed beef, and support sustainable farming practices. Exploring plant-based meals occasionally can also make a difference [5].
• Opt for sustainable groceries: Shop at packaging-free or bulk stores. No access? Buy in bulk at your regular store to minimize waste.

4. Rethink Your Transportation Habits 

How you get around affects your carbon footprint. Start small:

• Walk or bike more: Even once a week can make a difference.
• Use public transport: Replace car trips with bus or train rides when possible [9].
• Carpool: Sharing rides with colleagues or friends reduces emissions.
• Fly less: For shorter trips, consider buses or trains. Offset your carbon emissions for long flights.

5. Choose Sustainable Fashion 

The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters, but your wardrobe can make a difference:

• Avoid fast fashion: Look for quality over quantity. Cheaper often means corners were cut in ethics and sustainability.
• Buy second hand: Thrift stores and online resale platforms are great for finding unique, affordable items.
• Support eco-conscious brands: Do your research and choose brands that prioritize sustainability, like Arms of Andes, which uses 100% alpaca wool and natural dyes [6].
• Host clothing swaps: A fun way to give new life to unused items in your closet [7].

6. Upgrade Your Hygiene and Cleaning Habits

Small changes to your personal care and cleaning routines can have a big impact:

• Switch to bamboo* toothbrushes: Look for ones with compostable bristles and packaging.
• Choose steel razors: A durable, waste-free alternative to disposable razors.
• Use natural options: Biodegradable shampoos, soaps, and detergents are better for the planet.
• Use menstrual cups and fabric sanitary towels: They take a little getting used to, but you won’t go back when you do!
• Clean with vinegar and baking soda: These simple ingredients work wonders around the house and are free of harmful chemicals [8].

* When choosing products made from bamboo, try to ensure the bamboo comes from sustainable sources.

7. Embrace Nature and DIY Solutions 

Spending time outdoors and trying DIY solutions are both fun and sustainable:

• Grow your own vegetables: Even a small herb garden on a windowsill can make a difference.
• Start composting: Turn food scraps into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. No garden? Check if your city collects food waste.
• Connect with nature: Spending time outside reduces stress and reminds us why protecting the planet matters.
• Join community initiatives: Participate in clean-ups or tree-planting events.

8. Be Mindful About Waste

Rethinking how you handle waste is key to sustainable living:

• Reuse before you recycle: Find new uses for things before throwing them away.
• Donate or swap: Let someone else enjoy what you no longer need.
• Avoid expedited shipping: One-day deliveries often mean more vehicles on the road, increasing emissions.

Why Small Steps Matter

You might think, “will my tiny changes really help?” The answer is yes. If everyone made just one or two of these adjustments, the collective impact would be enormous. And remember, you don’t have to do everything at once. Pick a couple of these tips to start with, and add more as you go. Before you know it, living sustainably will feel like second nature.

So, are you ready to make 2025 your most sustainable year yet? Small steps today can lead to a greener tomorrow. Let’s get started—one habit at a time!