Two years ago, a group of influential scientists identified 2030 as the date by which we need to transition to a low carbon economy to save the planet. With a mere eight years to go, this month’s column offers six suggestions for New Year resolutions to help us achieve that goal.

These New Year resolutions are small, doable swaps to make each day that will go a long way to making a significant impact.

Eat less meat. Producing meat causes huge amounts of greenhouse gases. How about trying meat free Mondays, or having a go at Veganuary?

Don’t buy new clothes. The fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world (especially fast fashion). Charity shops, Depop and Vinted are a whole new, exciting way to shop!

Walk or cycle more – it’ll keep you fit and healthy and is beneficial to the environment. Could you replace your commute with a bus or bike one or two days a week? B&NES Council run a Loan Bike scheme, where you can trial an e-bike for up to four weeks.

Avoid single use plastic items, for example by carrying a metal water bottle, reusable cutlery and cloth bags. Conscience Foods stock solid shampoo and conditioner bars and make-up removal pads. For women, why not look into period pants?

Make space for nature. If you have room, plant a tree or wildlife friendly plants. Even a windowsill can be used to grow plants like lavender, which provide a much-needed snack for pollinators!

Use energy wisely. Tackle draughts at home with DIY energy efficiency products, and turn lights and appliances off when not in use, reducing carbon emissions and energy bills. Installing solar panels or switching to a green energy tariff makes an even bigger impact.

Learn more. Find out more about living sustainably and the science behind climate change. You could dedicate one night a week to watching a documentary or reading a book to grow your knowledge and understand the impact of our actions on the planet.

This article was first published in the Keynsham Voice – January 2022

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash

Seven sustainable New Year resolutions

Two years ago, a group of influential scientists identified 2030 as the date by which we need to transition to a low carbon economy to save the planet. With a mere eight years to go, this month’s column offers six suggestions for New Year resolutions to help us achieve that goal.

These New Year resolutions are small, doable swaps to make each day that will go a long way to making a significant impact.

Eat less meat. Producing meat causes huge amounts of greenhouse gases. How about trying meat free Mondays, or having a go at Veganuary?

Don’t buy new clothes. The fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world (especially fast fashion). Charity shops, Depop and Vinted are a whole new, exciting way to shop!

Walk or cycle more – it’ll keep you fit and healthy and is beneficial to the environment. Could you replace your commute with a bus or bike one or two days a week? B&NES Council run a Loan Bike scheme, where you can trial an e-bike for up to four weeks.

Avoid single use plastic items, for example by carrying a metal water bottle, reusable cutlery and cloth bags. Conscience Foods stock solid shampoo and conditioner bars and make-up removal pads. For women, why not look into period pants?

Make space for nature. If you have room, plant a tree or wildlife friendly plants. Even a windowsill can be used to grow plants like lavender, which provide a much-needed snack for pollinators!

Use energy wisely. Tackle draughts at home with DIY energy efficiency products, and turn lights and appliances off when not in use, reducing carbon emissions and energy bills. Installing solar panels or switching to a green energy tariff makes an even bigger impact.

Learn more. Find out more about living sustainably and the science behind climate change. You could dedicate one night a week to watching a documentary or reading a book to grow your knowledge and understand the impact of our actions on the planet.

This article was first published in the Keynsham Voice – January 2022

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash