The New Year is a chance to make new promises, fix our actions, and implement change. When it comes to how we treat our planet, we sure do have a lot of changes to make. So, in the spirit of bettering our actions, here are 11 New Year’s Resolutions that you can make to our planet this upcoming year:

1. Invest in reusable bags.

Rather than getting new paper or plastic bags every single time you go to a store, invest in some reusable bags! Not only is this creating less waste but reusable bags can carry heavier items and you can pick out fun patterned bags!

2. Conserve water.

Many people are unaware of the amount of water they waste daily. For example, did you know that if you leave your faucet running for 5 minutes while you brush your teeth you can waste up to 10 gallons of water? There are so many easy ways to conserve water at home! This year try:

• Turning off your faucet while you brush your teeth
• Only running the dishwasher or laundry machine when you have a full load
• Using grey water (leftover, undrinkable water) to water plants
• Taking shorter showers

3. Lower fossil fuel emissions.

To lower the number of cars on the road, therefore lowering fossil fuel emission, try carpooling, using public transportation, biking, or walking, any chance you get!

4. Use reusable containers.

To limit your plastic usage, use reusable containers instead of one-time-use plastic bags.

5. Use cold water as often as possible.

Heated water consumes a lot of energy, so try using cold water as much as possible. You can use cold water for dishes, certain loads of laundry, and for cleaning tasks that require water.

6. Recycle and compost!

Recycling and composting is so important in limiting the amount of waste we produce and send to landfills. Whether you can start composting in public places, at work, school, or home, that is a great, easy change you can make this year!

7. Donate and repurpose!

When you are getting rid of anything, try repurposing it or donating it if possible! This way, instead of creating more waste, you can find a new purpose for something, or give it to someone else who needs it.

8. Buy drought-tolerant plants!

When possible, try buying drought tolerant plants like many types of aloe or some succulents so you don’t need to use as much water!

9. Use mulch to conserve water in your garden.

When planting in your garden, put a layer of mulch to reduce evaporation, therefore conserving water.

10. Don’t litter.

This one is pretty self explanatory, but this year be very conscious about where you are putting your trash so you don’t harm the environment.

11. Save paper when possible.

Whenever possible, try limiting your paper usage by using scrap paper or by working online!