Green Goals: 12 Eco-Friendly Choices to Last a Full Year

It’s a bright and shiny new year, filled with promise, plans and new goals. If one of yours is helping the planet, we've got 12 monthly activities to help you get started throughout the entire year.

Are you considering the switch to an EV? Do you want to learn how to compost? New Year’s resolutions aren’t always about ditching bad habits. Instead, make new, positive choices like conserving energy at home which can be rewarding to both you and the planet. Start small and focus on one habit you can realistically maintain all year long. Even modest changes can add up to meaningful impact over time.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Save energy and money for National Cut Your Energy Cost Day (January 10) .

Driving yourself to work can seem convenient until you’re stuck in traffic. Why not take the stress (and the carbon emissions) out of your routine by carpooling, using public transit or riding a bike? You might be so refreshed at work you won’t need that third cup of coffee. And, if commuting every day feels like too much, try one or two low-carbon days per week to ease into the routine.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Up for the challenge? Try out Bike to Work Month (February 1-28).

It's easy to forget how much water we use on a day-to-day basis. Look for ways to dial back your water usage, including some these tips for reducing household water waste. Additionally, small steps like fixing leaks or shortening showers can make a noticeable difference on your utility bill.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Join the global movement for clean water on World Water Day (March 22).

Building greener habits can be especially rewarding when you invite others to join you on your journey. Organize a 30-Day Sustainability Challenge and bring a little friendly competition to help the environment, like seeing who can clean up the most trash from a public space. Sharing ideas and progress can keep everyone motivated while creating a sense of community around positive change.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Attend, or plan, some festivities with your community for Earth Day (April 22).

Trees are an essential element of our ecosystem. They care for the air we breathe, provide shade and offer a safe habitat for wildlife. Do some good for the planet by planting a tree — it can help increase your home’s energy efficiency, too! You could also consider supporting local tree programs or simply spending more time appreciating your local park.

Eco-Holiday Idea: If you can’t plant a tree, appreciate one on National Love a Tree Day (May 16).

A great way to help the environment is through reusing, repurposing and upcycling. Getting clever with old items and materials means you could both save money and avoid creating more waste. Best of all, you get to indulge your creative side! From furniture makeovers to DIY gifts, second looks often lead to the most meaningful results.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Plan swaps and projects with friends and family for Upcycling Day (June 24).

Single-use plastic is a huge threat to our environment, and we’re surrounded by it every day: bags, bottles, utensils and more. Switch to reusables whenever possible to keep plastic out of landfills. Keep a reusable bag or bottle handy so making the a more sustainable choice becomes second nature.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Get out your favorite reusable tote on International Plastic Bag Free Day (July 3).

Itching for a new wardrobe? New clothing takes tons of water and energy to produce, and fast fashion often ends up in landfills. Try to repurpose or upcycle your clothes, swap with friends or buy used (especially eco-friendly fabrics) to stay sustainably in style. You may discover unique outfits while reducing demand for new trends.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Thrift or donate clothes on National Secondhand Wardrobe Day (August 25).

We all know the importance of recycling, but do you know what can and can’t go in the bin? Check your city or town’s requirements so you can help the process and avoid “wishcycling” (letting non-recyclables go into the bin). A little extra knowledge can prevent contamination and make recycling more effective overall.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Share your knowledge with family and friends for Recycle Awareness Week (September 18-24).

October is Energy Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to conduct a home energy audit. A few simple actions can help ensure your house is operating at peak efficiency. For instance, sealing drafts and installing new insulation can make your home more comfortable while reducing energy use.

Eco-Holiday Idea: Bring in a pro to help for National Energy Geek Day (October 6).

Spending time in nature is good for your health and well-being, and a crisp fall day is the best time for it. Additionally, respecting natural spaces helps ensure they remain beautiful and accessible for others to enjoy. Be sure to bring your green outdoor habits with you on your adventures!

Eco-Holiday Idea: Hit the trails on Take a Hike Day (November 17).