12 Green New Year’s Resolutions for 2012

12 Green New Year’s Resolutions for 2012

From The Huffington Post

1. Replace single-use batteries in your camera with rechargeables

2. Make the switch to CFLs or LEDs already

3. Replace one grocery item with a local or organic option

4. Install a programmable thermostat

5. Go vegetarian for just one meal this week

6. Download Earth911′s iRecycle app for iPhone or Android

7. Clean out your garage of hazardous waste

8. Start just one DIY reuse project

9. Shop for the materials to start your compost

10. Learn how to hypermile for your commute to work

11. Learn the public transportation routes in your city

12. Make a green resolution for the new year - think about how you can make a difference for the environment in 2012.

Buy blemished fruit and vegetables

Buy blemished fruit and vegetables.  Food waste is a major source of wasted energy and resources.  By purchasing bruised fruit you send a message to your grocery that you’re willing to help them avoid waste.  If you’re lucky, you may also be able to save some money.  To eat, just cut off bruised or discolored portions, or consider cooking ‘fully-ripe’ fruit. 

Reducing, reusing, recycling: The pleasures of thrift stores

I live in a small, Colorado mountain community during the summer.  For a while there was no movie theater in the entire county.  There are, however, great thrift stores.  Once a week when we drive the 34 miles to go food shopping, we visit those thrift stores.  Our kitchen (and closets) are filled with the spoils of our visit—the blender in our cabin came from a thrift store, as did our bread machine and many other small kitchen items, like cups, utensils, and serving plates.

Reusing (buying at garage sales or thrift stores, or cruising around on garbage days) always trumps recycling if you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint.  It’s also fun because you never know what you may discover.