If you are anything like most (92%!) of the UK population – each year you set yourself multiple ‘New Year Resolutions’ which are usually abandoned after January! By even sticking to just one of these choices, you can feel a real sense of achievement and have a ‘Green New Year’.

1. Avoid ‘Single Use’

Easy to do and probably the most impactful resolution you can make – giving up items that are ‘single-use’. Of course, there is always the obvious bring your own bottle or shopping bags, but have you ever considered the following?

  • Going ‘paperless’ with your accounts (such as banking)
  • Selecting ‘no’ to a receipt if not required at tills, or go for e-receipts
  • Replace your disposable sandwich bags with reusable tubs and bees wraps
  • Sign up to your local library to borrow books (avoiding buying a book to only read once!)
  • Opt for cloth napkins as opposed to paper ones
2. Reducing your meat intake:

Of course, we know that giving up meat entirely is just not realistic (or wanted) by most. However, even just reducing your intake by one day a week you can make an impact – a great trend to follow is ‘Meat-free Mondays’. According to founders Paul, Mary, and Stella McCartney, it can take up to 30 bathtubs of water to produce just one beef burger!

The production of meat is also responsible for deforestation all around the world as well as the mass release of CO2 – contributing towards climate change. So, if you’re really looking for a challenge, why not try ‘Veganuary’? This 31-day challenge can not only help you live more sustainably, but often provides a healthier lifestyle.

When you do eat meat, try to choose options that are sustainably sourced and free range, and if you can buy organic – even better.

3. Avoiding fast fashion:

A popular topic for discussion, especially amongst the younger generation, is the impact of ‘fast fashion’. The textile industry alone is responsible for 92 million tonnes of waste per year, and to produce just one kilogram of cotton, over 10,000 litres of water is required! Unfortunately, synthetic cotton alternatives are not a solution – 35% of all microplastics that are released into the oceans come from these materials.

In the New Year, consider limiting your clothing purchases. Of course, replace the essentials when needed, but try to avoid buying into fashion trends that go as quickly as they come.

If you do need a bit of wardrobe refresh, buying from ethically sourced clothing companies are a great alternative. Great examples are Kite-Clothing and the Cotswolds based company Madia & Matilda.

We know that this can cost you more than buying from your standard high street shops – but of course the quality is significantly better and will last! However, if these sites are out of your price range, then try charity shops, or online selling sites, to look for ‘new to you’ items.

4. Try eco-friendly self-care:

A further resolution you could make is to change your self-care routines, as this not only benefits the environment, but also your bank account!

By making a one-time purchase of items such as reusable makeup cloths, you will no longer need to waste your money on cotton wool, makeup wipes or similar. Further switches you can make are:

  • Metal safety razors (with replaceable blades)
  • Bamboo toothbrushes & interdental brushes
  • Eco-Floss
  • Laundry detergent sheets
  • Shampoo and conditioner bars (instead of bottles)

Have a browse at our Bathroom & Personal Care range for some more inspiration!

5. Reduce your food waste:

Perhaps an obvious one but reducing your food waste in the New Year is an easy resolution to make! Planning your meals can help you to buy and use only the food you need and avoid impulse buying in supermarkets.

Try to buy loose fruit and vegetables rather than plastic wrapped packets, as then you have control over portions and can also eliminate single use packaging! Many towns now have ‘Refill’ shops, where you can take your own containers to buy exactly the amount of ingredient you need. By only buying what you will eat, you will not only reduce waste but will also save money.

Living an eco-friendly life can sometimes seem like a daunting task, but by committing to all or any of the resolutions we’ve talked about here you can really make a difference!