The Green Review

We’re starting another year and it’s that time to reflect on last year and reflect on how you want next year to be and why not look at making it a Green Year!

Here are 10 ideas for your new year resolutions for 2022…

1. Spend more time in Nature

Spending time in nature can help you create a more sustainable attitude and has been shown to have huge benefits for your mental health. It has been well documented that spending time in nature has an important function for your mental health while also helping to reduce stress.

2. Try a plant-based diet

Eating less meat is proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint as an individual. It’s good for the environment and for your health. Not sure if 100% plant-based or vegan is for you? Try it part time. Not sure what to cook? Check out our Meatless Monday posts designed by UNB Student Health Centre, and if you want to hear more Consultations are FREE and there is no referral required. Call 453-4837 to book your appointment today!

3. Drive less

One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to drive less and the transportation sector is the largest emission source in Atlantic Canada. You can practice taking alternative forms of transportation such as:

• Using the public transport
• Biking
• Carpooling
• Walking
• E-bikes

And if you do drive – Don’t Idle!

4. Buy Second Hand

Shopping second hand will have huge benefits to your waste production and your wallet! By purchase perfectly good used items, and mastering the art of thrifting, you’ll be amazed at what you can find. Even if you limit this to clothing, it’ll help reduce fast fashion – which is known to have a high environmental impact and the UN estimates that the fashion industry accounts for ~10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Challenge yourself - don't buy any new clothes for a month or maybe even a year.

What else you can buy second-hand?

5. Save Energy

There are simply things that you can do that will help you save energy, saving you money and working as a great New Years Resolution. Start small and be consistent, adding more things with time. Simply turning off lights when you leave a room, having shorter showers and making the switch to LED lightbulbs. If you need more guidance, check out UNB Sustainability’s Green Living Guide.

6. Reduce Food Waste

If food waste was a country, it would be the third largest greenhouse gas emitter and this doesn’t include emissions related to transporting this waste or the plastic bag you threw it out in. There are some great tips you can easily implement to help reduce your food waste:

• Thinking twice before throwing food away
• Freezing extras/leftovers
• Avoid buying too much
• Making a shopping list to only buy what you need
• Store food appropriately

And if you have to throw food away, try to compost your waste.

7. Shop Locally & Ethically

In our consumerist society, it is important to realize that your money is your voice. Use this new year to start thinking about what you want your voice to say. Shopping locally will help cut down on carbon emissions from transporting products while supporting your local economy. Take this a step further, research into the business practices of brands and shops you use. If you don’t like what they support, shop else where!

8. Downsize

Most of us have too much stuff that we don’t need and someone else could make use of it. This resolution could also earn you some extra cash by hosting a yard sale. Keep this going by reflecting on what you buy before you buy it. Do you REALLY need it? At UNB Sustainability we encourage the 5 R’s for waste management. The first step, refuse buying products that you don’t need.

9. Learn More

Making an effort to become education is a great way to make informed choices moving forwards. We all know a little bit about Sustainability and the Climate Crisis, but take it further and learn what you can do that actually matters. There are thousands of online courses – reflect on what is lacking in your knowledge and find the course that matches what you need!

10. Spread the Word

Already know everything?

2022 is the year that you increase your sphere of influence and take it to the next level. Vocalize what you’ve learnt within your community and beyond. Consider this resolution as your commitment to take everyday opportunities to engage with people about sustainability. Start a movement and make change happen!