Between October’s IPCC report and the National Climate Assessment that dropped on Black Friday, it feels like 2018 has painted a bleak picture of just how ugly the future will be. While it all feels overwhelming, every little bit helps. We are vowing to make 2019 our greenest year yet, and we hope you’ll join us. Here are 10 easy sustainability resolutions to make in 2019.
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Stop using plastic grocery bags
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Americans use 100 billion plastic bags a year, which requires 12 million barrels of oil to manufacture.
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Refill your reusable water bottle
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Last year, the average American used 167 disposable water bottles, but only recycled 38.
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Think about your purchases and ask if there is a sustainable option
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Chances are, with a little research you can find an alternative that is better for the Earth. The Package Free Shop is a great place to start.
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Start composting
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Composting is easy and costs nothing after a small initial cost and the benefits are great. Here is a link to low cost DIY compost bins.
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Refuse straws
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In the USA, we use 500 million straws every day (enough straws to circle around the Earth 2.5 times!) Thank goodness establishments are helping us out by not supplying.
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Try to find a new home for unwanted items
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It’s never been easier to sell items online to people looking to buy at a good price. Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Craigslist, and Poshmark are a great place to start, but there are countless apps that require almost no work to sell your old stuff.
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Shop local. Buy from the farmer’s market
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Local foods and goods support local families. They use less fossil fuels and energy to transport. Local foods have less preservatives, which benefit the environment and wildlife. Plus the farmers market is a lovely weekend activity.
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Bring your own lunch, and pack it in a reusable non-plastic container
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Just like number 7, when you’re making your own lunch you know exactly what is in your food.
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Find a few items to buy in bulk and refill your reusable containers
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Depending on your grocery store, buying in bulk can be tricky. We are challenging you to pick a few items to buy in bulk because every little bit helps.
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Share your sustainable wins
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Encourage the movement! Tell your friends and your community how you are being sustainable. Lead by example and be the change that you want to see in the world.
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