Setting sustainable intentions for the new year

Published: Wednesday 10 Jan 2024

The start of a new year is always great time to reflect on life and start fresh, and we know lots of people take this time to set resolutions. We've given you a head start with these ideas for simple, sustainable and impactful intentions:

  1. Commit to recycle smart: because choosing the right bin makes a big impact. Use the Recyclemate website, or better still, download the app on your phone so it's handy when you need to check 'which bin'.
  2. Use a kerbside FOGO bin for food scraps: you'll save waste from landfill and reduce climate impacts. You can order a FOGO bin here if you haven't already got one.
  3. Get a 10 cent refund by recycling drink containers: Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme means cleaner recycling and reduced litter in our environment. Visit the CDSVic website for a list of eligible drink containers and locations in Whitehorse.
  4. Become part of our sustainable living community: or sign up for our sustainability e-News to be the first to hear about upcoming sustainable living events, or follow Sustainable Living in Whitehorse on Facebook
  5. Leave the car at home one more day each week: walking or catching public more often helps reduces emissions, and can save wear and tear on your car. 
  6. Start a home compost bin: Creating nutritious compost for your garden with home composting has multiple benefits - it's good for your garden, and reduces waste.
  7. Plant some indigenous plants: they can help improve biodiversity and attract birds and other animals to your garden. Visit the indigenous plants page to learn more and find a local indigenous plant nursery.
  8. Go plastic bag free at the shops: collect a stash of lightweight fabric or mesh bags for your fruit and veg to reduce environmental impacts of plastic. Rinse out, air dry and keep them handy so they are ready for next time.
  9. Join a local environment group: volunteering is a great way to care for your local environment - plus its can bring more happiness into your life. Our volunteer groups would love to hear from you.  
  10. Research how to transition your house: Learning how to reduce your homes energy use might mean taking steps to be more electric. Every step can reduce emissions and make savings. 

Check out the 'reduce, reuse, recycle' or Sustainability at Home pages for more ideas.

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