Okay, the slate has been cleaned; another year has come and gone. It’s now time to start fresh with a brand new year and, if you’re looking to start off on an eco-friendly note, we’ve got some tips to help you put your green foot forward.

These simple actions can help you start the year off right. Add to them each and every day to make your new year even more eco-friendly than the old.

Morning Routine

Let’s start with your morning routine. To start your day off right, it is recommended you keep yourself unplugged, at least until you’ve had your morning coffee, tea or water and engaged in a little self care. You should also take the opportunity to connect with nature (get grounded and soak up some early morning sun). Then, and only then, should you even consider grabbing your phone or popping on your laptop to check in on social media or get to work.

By choosing the right way to start your day, you can avoid doom scrolling and put your green foot forward each and every day.

Throughout the day

Throughout the day, you’re likely to face numerous opportunities to go green. At each of these decision points, the choice you make will determine how eco-friendly your action will be and the impact it will have on the environment around you.

It could be when you make, or get, your morning coffee. Will you choose a reusable cup, a compostable cup or a single-use, disposable cup?

Maybe the chance to choose a more eco-friendly option comes when stop by the grocery store to pick up ingredients for your family dinner or a lunchtime snack. Will you choose fresh, organic produce or opt for a pre-packaged, frozen meal? Can you find plastic-free packaging and healthier alternatives for the food you love?

Will you immediately go online to buy new or will you consider thrift and second-hand stores as a viable option?

How to get to and from work can have a big impact on the environment, as well. Are you going to drive your own car, carpool with co-workers or take public transportation? Will you drive to the store or walk?

The point is…everything you do during the day makes a difference. So, at each opportunity, take a moment to consider the long-term impact of your decisions. You, and the planet, will benefit in the long run.

Mid-Day BreakS

A simple way to help yourself each and every day is to take breaks throughout the day. Fill up your reusable water bottle, so you can stay hydrated all day long. If you don’t have a standing desk, stand up regularly, stretch and even go for a walk around the office. Get outside. Go for a walk. Breathe in some fresh air and soak up a little sun.

Taking breaks throughout the day can help you with your health and overall well-being. It’s sometimes the little things, done over and over with consistency, that make the biggest difference.

Evening Routine

At the end of the night, help yourself wind down by unplugging early. Unplugging is extremely beneficial to both you and the environment. The more you unplug, the more you’ll find you really don’t need to be plugged in as much as you may have thought.

Be sure to pass the benefits to your finances, as well. Unplug your appliances and electronics so they, too, can get some rest and not continue to suck energy all night long. Turning off unnecessary lights can also aid in energy savings. It makes for a cozy mood, too.

In Summary

One of the best ways to start the year off right, and to do so by putting a green foot forward, is to focus on the little things. Make small, eco-friendly choices. Do this each and every day and you’ll have more of a positive impact on your life, and the world around you, than ever before.