As the new year begins, you might want to challenge yourself to some new resolutions - including sustainable ones. Embark on a journey towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle with this month-by-month guide. Each month, there's a new challenge that focuses on a specific area of sustainability, helping you build habits that benefit both you and the planet.
Just remember: this isn't about perfection, but about challenging yourself to be more sustainable. There's no need to strictly follow these challenges, they can also simply serve as inspirations to motivate you to be more sustainable in one area of your life per month. Let's dive in!
JANUARY: Declutter and Donate
New Year, New Me! (Haven't we all said that before?)
There are always things that we're leaving in the old year - old baggage and bad habits. Perhaps it's a good idea to also leave some clutter in the past year and start your year by decluttering your home responsibly.
Donate items in good condition to local charities or reuse centres. For instance, you could declutter your closet from clothing that doesn't fit you anymore and make room for new things. Recycle or repurpose what can't be donated.
This first challenge is not only a fresh start but also sets the tone for mindful consumption all year long.
FEBRUARY: Switch to Reusables
We should definitely leave single-use plastics in 2024. Well... that may not be entirely possible, as single-use plastic is practically everywhere! But we can try our best to avoid it whenever possible!
There are countless single-use items that have good reusable alternatives. Invest in a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, or food containers and switch out plastic or paper bags with reusable shopping bags or grocery nets. This small change significantly reduces waste over time.
MARCH: Conserve Water
In March, focus on water conservation. Fix leaks in your home, install water-efficient fixtures, and adopt water-saving habits. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or soaping your hands, collect rainwater for gardening, if possible.
APRIL: Plant Something Green
April is Earth Month, so let's celebrate it by planting trees, flowers, or a vegetable garden. If your space is limited, you can consider indoor plants or join a community gardening project. Plants improve air quality and promote biodiversity.
MAY: Embrace a Plant-Based Diet
Meatless-May is here! Experiment with a plant-based diet for the month, if you're not vegan already. Even small steps, like participating in Meatless Mondays, can reduce your carbon footprint and improve your health.
And if you love cooking or baking, this month can also be a creative experience for you, where you get to try new recipes that will become favourites. Alternatively, you can try creating plant-based versions of your favourite meals.
JUNE: Reduce Energy Usage
Focus on energy efficiency in June. Swap out old light bulbs for LEDs, unplug devices whenever not in use, and use natural light whenever possible. If feasible, consider a home energy audit or invest in renewable energy sources like solar panels.
JULY: Go Plastic-Free
Join the global Plastic-Free July movement by fully eliminating single-use plastics - go zero waste! Use alternatives like glass jars, beeswax wraps, and stainless steel straws. Pay attention to product packaging when shopping and don't forget your reusable grocery nets at home to avoid plastic bags.
AUGUST: Travel Sustainably
Make your transportation choices greener. Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation instead of driving solo. For longer trips, consider trains or buses over flights.
SEPTEMBER: Support Local and Ethical Brands
Shift your spending to support local businesses and brands that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Research companies' supply chains and certifications to make informed choices.
OCTOBER: Learn to Repair
Extend the life of your belongings by learning basic repair skills. Mend clothes, fix appliances, or upcycle furniture. Many communities offer repair cafes or online tutorials to help you get started.
NOVEMBER: Reduce Food Waste
The holiday season is coming up, time to think about your food waste. Plan meals carefully, store food properly, get creative with leftovers. Compost scraps and avoid overbuying. Reducing food waste saves money and conserves resources!
DECEMBER: Sustainable Celebrations
Make the holiday season eco-friendly! Use recyclable or reusable wrapping materials, give experience-based gifts, and source decorations sustainably. Emphasise quality time over material goods.
This 12-month challenge is designed to make sustainable living approachable and achievable. Each challenge helps you build eco-friendly habits that become second nature and you can carry them on, even as the month passes by. Remember: small, consistent changes add up to significant impacts over time. Take the first step today and enjoy the journey to a greener lifestyle!