Small changes in daily habits can have a big impact on our environment. For those looking to live more sustainably in 2024 here is a list of 12 lifestyle changes to keep Living the Green Life throughout the entire year.
January - Limit paper waste
Tax season is approaching. The new year is a good time to get your finances in order. Switch to e-pay options where available. Plan to e-file your taxes and switch monthly bills over to electronic payment notifications. Doing so could save you paper, stamps, gas, (to deliver the bills through the mail), and time.
February - Reduce wasted food
Gearing up for the “big game” with a party? This is a good time to reduce wasted food and make sure you use reusable tableware and serving items. Plan your food accordingly for the number of guests to minimize waste and use reusable containers for leftovers or, ask your guests to bring their own reusable containers. No matter which team wins, taking these simple steps will be a big win for our environment.
March - Let’s go thrifting
Get thrifty – go thrift shopping for items which are “new to you.” You may find bargains and a variety of unique items which can be repurposed or reused. Have items you no longer need? Do clean outs of your closet, basement, and garage – wherever you may have clutter. Donate the items to a local thrift store or prepare to resell them yourself this coming yard sale season. Textiles can also be donated via designated local drop-off bins/boxes. Learn the benefits of reusing and recycling textiles at dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/recycling-composting/more-things-you-can-recycle/textile-reuse-recycling You can also find a location to properly dispose of old electronics at recyclerightny.org/electronics-recycling-tool
April - Look for the ZERO
Look for the ZERO – purchase phosphorus-free lawn fertilizer. Fertilizer labels have three numbers and the number in the middle is the percentage of phosphorus in the product, such as: 22-0-15. More than 100 water bodies in New York state cannot be used or enjoyed because of phosphorus overuse. Need a new weed eater, lawn mower, or other equipment? Consider electric and avoid fossil fuel use, related gases and potential spillages.
May - Conserve water
The month of May includes “Water Week.” This is the perfect time to try and conserve water. One way to start is by only watering your lawn when necessary. Also, be sure to follow water restrictions in your area.
June - Protect our pollinators
Looking to plant a garden? Consider a pollinator garden to protect bees, bats, certain birds, and other pollinators. Doing so will beautify the yard and help pollinators thrive and ultimately benefit our environment. Also make sure you use native and non-invasive plants. dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/pesticides/special-initiatives/pollinator-protection
July - Minimize or eliminate your plastic item purchases
Take part in “Plastic Free July.” Try to minimize or eliminate your use of single-use plastic items. Carry this habit through the rest of the year and you will discover options which are more viable, and you will help reduce what goes into our landfills as well.
August - Learn about air quality and it’s impacts
August is the perfect time to take steps to protect our air quality. Sign up to receive air quality alert emails – especially pertaining to those with compromised health conditions. Open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York state. Learn the criteria for opening burning from campfires and bonfires and more. Follow the states annual burn ban from March 16 to May 14.
September - Try a green form of transportation
“Get There Green!” Utilize green modes of transportation. Public transportation options to explore include buses, the subway, and the train. Consider carpooling, biking, walking, and more. Help reduce emissions and fossil fuel use. dec.ny.gov/get-involved/living-green/get-there-green
October - Learn how to compost
Compost garden leftovers, pumpkins, fall leaves, food scraps such as apple peelings, and more. Learn how and what to compost.
November - Are you recycling correctly?
Take part in NY Recycles Day! Visit the Recycle Right New York website for your local recycling guidelines. From used paint, to unused medicines, to cans and bottles – there are several take back programs in New York. recyclerightny.org/local-recycling-guidelines Want to stay updated on local Household Hazardous Waste Take Back Days and Upcoming Repair Cafes in your area? Sign up to receive Solid Waste and Recycling emails from DEC. public.govdelivery.com/accounts/NYSDEC/subscriber/new?topic_id=NYSDEC_42
December - How to stay green during the holidays
Have a sustainable holiday season. Email holiday greetings instead of mailing paper cards through the mail. Use reusable gift bags for wrapping (you can even make your own – no sewing needed), once again work on reducing food waste and using reusables for tableware. Gift experiences instead of items – some ideas include a camping gift card, ski passes, and more.
