Monthly Eco-Resolutions

Each year we all make many resolutions and along the way most seem to be abandoned.  If one of yours is to improve your “green” living habits, rather than get overwhelmed with all that can be done, here’s a quick monthly at-a-glance list of a single task you can take on every month during 2011. Focus on just one a month and by the end of the year, you may wonder how you lived any differently.

• January: I will increase my recycling efforts.

• February: I will turn down the thermostat a few degrees and check my home for areas where heat could be escaping.

• March: I will begin and/or increase my practice of using reusable items such as bags and bottles.

• April – I will plant a garden and/or begin shopping at my local farmer’s market.

• May – I will consider composting, even at the most basic level.

• June – I will begin water conservation efforts in my home and install a rain barrel.

• July - I will begin the practice of driving more efficiently to conserve fuel and reduce my carbon output.

• August – I will turn up the thermostat a few degrees and re-check for places in my home where the cool air may be escaping.

• September – I will reduce my energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when not in use.

• October – I will precycle and consider the packaging and production efforts involved when making my purchasing decisions.

• November – I will decorate, shop, wrap and recycle responsibly for the holidays.

• December – I will donate unused items, clothing, household goods to a local charity, consignment or second-hand shop.
  

So there you have it.  Start out with just one or take on a few at a time.  Just don’t let yourself get overwhelmed and give up.  It’s a new year with twelve months to begin new habits for a more resourceful decade to come.