2020 Resolution Reboot

Take a moment and reflect. Now that it’s almost March, how are you doing on your New Year’s resolutions? Are you sticking to them? Did you forget about them? Or have they simply fallen by the wayside? If you’ve fallen off track (or even if you haven’t), try picking up two or three of the following tips to reduce your environmental impact in the new year. You might surprise yourself with how much better you feel both physically and emotionally; when we take care of the environment, she takes care of us. 

1. Start composting. Also known as organics recycling, this is a great way to reduce your footprint on harmful incinerator emissons from places like the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC). If at-home composting isn’t your style, Minneapolis has a free curbside organics recycling program. Sign up here.
2. Invest in reusable grocery bags and containers. While this topic was addressed in-depth in a previous blog post, a resolution reboot is a great time to make it actually happen. Do a little research--20 minutes should suffice--and locate or order the best bags and containers for your families’ grocery needs. Remember, if you can, choose glass over even reusable plastic. Also, check out our Boomerang Bags Sewing Bees to help create reusable bags from upcycled fabric that we distribute to local stores.
3. Try your hand at mending and repairs. One important component of zero waste living is responsible consumption; even if you and your family only compost and recycle, that’s not zero waste. Instead, try integrating a philosophy of upcycling into your home one step at a time. Try darning your next pair of socks with a hole in them. Repurpose the next vase your kids break into something you can continue to use: backsplash for a kitchen or bathroom update, or even an artistic birdbath. Creativity counts when it comes to sustainability. Check out the Hennepin County Fix-It Clinics to get household items fixed for free!
4. Dust off your bike and use it! Remember the ABC’s of bike check-ups: Air, Brakes, and Chain. Fill your tires, check your brakes, and ensure the chain is in good condition. More information here. In less than ten minutes, you’re ready to ride. You don’t have to be a diehard cyclist to ride in the winter; set a goal to ride in place of driving at least once a week, and remember to wear a helmet!
5. Reconnect with nature. Spend some quality alone or family time in the great outdoors. Remind yourself why you’re doing what you’re doing. In the winter, grab a pair of cross country skis or a pair of warm boots and check out the Chain of Lakes, warming up for hot cocoa in Uptown. In springtime and summer, swim and birdwatch at Theodore Wirth Regional Park or go for a walk along Minnehaha creek (for a unique adventure, plan ahead to bring tubes and a picnic lunch for a float down the creek). Check out some more places here.

These are just a few suggestions for getting back on track with your 2020 resolutions in a way that is environmentally conscious. If you have other ways you are doing your part to help keep our planet clean and cool, share them with us!