New Year’s resolutions tend to focus on how we can better ourselves for the year ahead, but what if we broadened the scope of our resolutions to include our communities and the planet? Although unconventional, expanding your resolutions will make them more impactful and could even help you to stick to them. Today we brainstorm four potential New Year’s resolutions that will better you and the world around you.
Consider the impact of your daily actions
Many of us are eco-conscious consumers, but we can also get distracted from our green goals when we’re stressed, rushed, or anxious. Recommit to assessing the impact of your lifestyle and identify a few key habits you can alter to be a better steward of the planet. It could be investing in washing detergent sheets, ditching paper coffee cups, biking to work, or finally investing in solar panels for your home.
Seek environmental justice
Environmental degradation is an intersectional issue and issues like redlining, green space disparities, highway placement, and resource access disproportionately affect communities of color. Advocate for environmental and social justice by identifying environmental justice issues in your community, spreading awareness, and contacting your representatives.
Learn something new about nature
The natural environment plays a pivotal role in human health, but many people don’t fully understand the link between clean air, water, and soil and our health. Expand your own knowledge and appreciation for nature by learning something new about the world we live in. This could look like studying the natural ecosystem in your own backyard, joining a birdwatching group, or becoming a member of your local botanical garden.
Get out into nature with those your love
Many people decide to get more active around the new year, but what if instead of exercise you decided to simply get outside for 30 minutes each day. Time in nature has been shown to boost mental and physical health, so getting outdoors could in fact be the most beneficial resolution to adopt this year.
