Photo from Creative Commons by fd

Resolutions for a Sustainable 2009

by Lindsay Banks
12.31.08 

I’m going to include my own New Year’s Resolution in this list.  You can try to guess which one it is.  Or add your own in the comments!

This post was inspired by WiseBread, Green Resoultions, Planet Green, Suite 101, National Forest Foundation, and Co-op America. 

One-time actions

• Get rid of the extra car.  Join I-GO or Zipcar (if in Chicago or Oak Park).  $50 discount if you join I-GO before midnight tonight, using the "Holiday2008" promo code. 
• Drop the bottled water habit.  Purchase a reusable steel one instead.  I use Klean Kanteen.
• Install rain barrels.
• Improve home insulation.
• Get toxin-absorbing houseplants (or give them as a gift, like I did!)
• Start a garden with herbs and veggies.
• Buy a battery charger and re-usable batteries.
• DIY crafts and projects—like MCA’s workshop to make wearable jewelry out of everyday items, January 3rd.

On-going actions

• Always unplug electronics when not in use – laptop charger, cell phone charger, stereo, etc. 
• Push comfort levels with the thermostat, even if it is just one degree each month. 
• Walk or bike to the grocery store for small trips, or combine trips.  And take transit when you can!
• Rediscover your city, town, or region one neighborhood at a time. Find a restaurant, historical site, or street fair to visit in every corner of your area.  (Suggest cultural attractions and I'll add links!)
  • Alta Vista Terrace in Lakeview
  • Lincoln Park Conservatory 
  • Morton Aboretum in Lisle
• Buy less stuff, but when you have to buy something new, look for greener versions of your favorite products  
• Support local farmers through CSAs or farmers markets.  I use Irv & Shelley’s Fresh Picks.  There are also lists of winter locations.
• No more Styrofoam takeout containers.  Try bringing a small Tupperware container for leftovers.  People will look at you funny, but that's ok.
• Eat more veggies, less meat.  
• Conserve water by catching warming-up shower water to water house plants or outdoor gardens.  Another water conservation idea: Don't shower alone - shower together! 
• Check tire pressure regularly to ensure proper inflation, which can significantly affect fuel efficiency. 
• Compost.  (You can use biodegradable plastic “Bio Bags” for your compost pile, but don’t use them for landfill-bound trash.)
• Stay involved and informed of issues and legislation involving the environment.  Find out how your Senators and Representatives vote and how they score with the League of Conservation Voters.

Cheers and have a safe and happy holiday!

*HINT: I posted my (still growing) list of resolutions on Gapers Block.