By Cheryl Conley, Lake Creek Nature Preserve Board of Directors
The New Year gives everyone a chance to reset the clock, wipe the slate clean and get a fresh start. Many people like to make New Year’s resolutions to improve themselves or their lives. This practice often involves reflecting on the past year, identifying areas for improvement, and committing to changes that can lead to personal growth, better health, or enhanced relationships.
Some of the more popular resolutions are to lose weight, save money, drink less alcohol, and work less. The list goes on and on. Studies show that only a fraction stick to them throughout the year but they can still serve as a motivational tool, encouraging individuals to strive for positive change and a fresh start in the new year.
The concept of New Year’s resolutions dates back to ancient times with Babylonians being among the first to make them. The resolutions were actually promises made to the gods during a 12-day festival in mid-March known as Akitu.
Types of promises made were to pay debts or to return borrowed items. In exchange for the promises to their gods it was hoped that the gods would bless them with abundant crops and good fortune.
Making a New Year’s resolution to help the environment can be a meaningful and impactful choice and can serve as a starting point for long-term sustainable habits, making it easier to integrate eco-friendly practices into your daily life. Here are just a few things to which you can commit:
- Reduce plastic use and recycle.
- Conserve water. Fix dripping faucets, take shorter showers, irrigate your lawns at night.
- Reduce energy consumption. Turn off the lights, set you’re A/C a degree or two higher.
- Advocate for policy changes. Support and vote for policies that prioritize environmental protection.
- Choose eco-friend options. Opt for biodegradable and sustainably sourced products.
- Properly dispose of motor oil and household chemicals.
- Plant a pollinator garden.
- Plant trees.
- Use fewer chemicals when cleaning and caring for your lawn and garden.
Let’s all resolve to make our world a better place in 2025. Every small action contributes to a larger impact, so even minor changes in your daily habits can significantly help the environment.