Here’s some good news as we enter the new year: Many resolutions we set—like eating better and saving money—are also great for the planet. Let’s explore some simple, low-cost ways to make a difference in your life and for the environment.
### Save Money on Bills
Want to cut costs at home? Start by checking your electronics. Many devices use power even when they’re off. Unplugging them or using a power strip can help with this “phantom energy” waste.
Adjusting your thermostat just a few degrees can also save money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, setting it back 7-10 degrees for eight hours can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 10% each year.
When doing laundry, try washing clothes in cold water and air-drying when possible. Heating water is energy-intensive, and drying clothes can chew up a lot of power too. Matthew Gonzales from the National Hispanic Energy Council emphasizes that small changes can lead to significant savings over time, especially in expensive energy states.
Some easy swaps include using LED bulbs, sealing windows, and replacing air filters. “Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good enough,” Gonzales advises.
### Eat Healthier and Waste Less
Reducing food waste benefits your wallet and the environment. Food waste costs U.S. consumers about $728 each year and contributes greenhouse gases equivalent to emissions from 42 coal-fired power plants, according to the EPA.
Before buying new groceries, use what you already have. Cookbook author Anne-Marie Bonneau says this can lead to delicious meals crafted from leftover ingredients. For instance, leftover vegetables can easily turn into soup.
Preserving food can also help. Fermenting, for example, is simple and can extend the life of your food. Apps and gadgets make meal prep easier and often use less energy.
Moreover, eating fewer ultra-processed foods can improve your health and reduce plastic pollution. This shift often leads to fresher meals that are better for you and the planet.
### Declutter and Buy Less
Decluttering doesn’t mean tossing everything away or buying new bins. Often, it means realizing what you already own. Spending an hour to organize your space can reveal duplicates and forgotten items, which helps reduce impulse buys.
Katrina Caspelich from Remake suggests a “one-in, one-out” rule to keep clutter at bay. This method encourages careful purchasing. Also, unsubscribing from promotional emails can help you resist temptations. “Wait 24 hours before buying,” she says. This pause often transforms a “must-have” into something you can skip.
Consider trying a no-buy challenge for a month. This strategy lets you explore what you own while saving money. Statistics show that those who participate can save about $300 and prevent substantial waste.
In 2018, the U.S. generated around 17 million tons of textile waste. That’s mainly clothing. By buying secondhand or reusing what you have, you play a role in reducing this number.
The main takeaway? You don’t need to do everything at once. Start small, focus on a habit you can stick to, and you’ll make a positive impact on both your budget and the climate.
For more insights on sustainability and energy efficiency, check out resources from the U.S. Department of Energy.
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new year's resolutions, climate change
