23 Things You Can Do in 2023 for the Planet!
New Year’s is here and everyone is talking about their New Year’s Resolution that they (probably) won’t stick to. Why not do something to have a better impact on the planet? Here are 23 things almost anyone can do in 2023 for the earth:
Eat less meat and dairy - You don’t have to totally cut it out to make a difference. Switching to a few days a week, or a mostly plant-based diet, can have a better impact on the planet.
Avoid single-use plastics - Only 9% of plastics have been recycled. Plastic never breaks down and sits in the environment, degrading into smaller pieces (microplastics). Microplastics are harmful to human health and the planet’s health.
Turn off lights when not in use - So easy and you will save money on electricity.
Bring your own shopping bags - And use them!
Start composting - If you have been interested in starting composting, but not sure where to start, check out my recent blog post. Once you start, it really is as simple as taking out the trash.
Hang dry clothes when possible - This will make your clothes last longer AND will conserve energy.
Support local farmers & makers - Know where your food comes from. The shorter the distance your food travels, the better.
Take shorter showers - Conserve water!
Walk instead of drive when possible - Not everyone lives in a walkable area, unfortunately. But, walking when possible helps out.
Learn how to recycle properly - Recycling should be a last resort. However, knowing how to recycle properly helps avoid sending unrecyclable products into the bin. Adding unrecyclable products can ruin entire batches of recycling.
Bring your own coffee cup to the cafe - Regular to-go coffee cups, unless specifically labeled as “compostable” are just trash - they can’t even be recycled! Also, you look cooler carrying a reusable cup.
Grocery shop in the bulk bins, if available to you. Not everyone is lucky enough to have access to grocery bulk bins. If you have access to them - use them! It helps reduce the amount of single-use plastics you pick up while shopping for food.
Embrace naked produce (or bring your own produce bags) - Produce does not need to be in a plastic bag. If you really want a bag, bring some reusable ones.
Support businesses that have the same values as you - Put your money where your mouth is.
Boycott fast fashion, shop secondhand - Fast fashion is one of the top polluting industries. Not only are they harmful to the environment, but they don’t treat their workers fair (modern day slavery).
Unplug electronics when not in use - This is an easy one!
When you do get a plastic container, reuse it if possible - It is only “single-use” if it is used once.
Keep learning - You will never know too much. The more you learn, the more action you can take.
Donate (or sell) items you no longer want - Help extend the product’s life by donating or selling it.
Bring your own water bottle - Plastic water bottles are a scam.
Eat out often? Bring your own container for leftovers - Most to-go containers are non recyclable and non compostable. Make sure to bring your own if you go out to eat - or - eat everything on your plate.
Share knowledge with others - Knowledge truly is power! Share that wealth.
Take care of yourself. Mind, body, and spirit. There is a connection with your health and the planet’s.
You don’t have to do it all! Do what you can - we all have to be the change we wish to see.
What is your New Year's resolution?
