As the curtains come down on the year 2016, we at the Environmental Protection Agency, wish our readers a prosperous New Year. At this time of year, most of us are motivated to turn over a new leaf so as to kick start new ideas and plans in our life. Traditionally, this includes making the all-important New Year’s resolutions. Regardless of what lifestyle changes you resolve to make, we hope that you achieve them and that they work to uplift you spiritually, physically and environmentally. It is our fervent hope that our articles on the environment have inspired you to add a few environmental resolutions in the mix!
Setting some green resolutions will no doubt improve your lifestyle as well as benefit the Earth. Here are some green ideas you can add to your list of New Year’s resolutions.
1. Choosing reusable items over disposable
Before you buy an item, think about the amount of waste it will contribute to the waste stream. Choose reusable products – bottles, cups, canvas shopping bags etc. to significantly reduce the amount of waste you generate on a daily basis – and you can save cash too.
2. Save Energy and Water
This idea will allow you to save cash for the New Year as conserve on your use of electricity and water. Change out those old incandescent light bulbs to energy saving bulbs! Go a step further and replace those high energy household appliances to energy efficient one and watch your savings grow. A useful tip is to look for the energy star on any new appliances you plan to buy. To use less energy when doing laundry, try to iron and wash all your clothes on one day!
To start your New Year right, fix those leaking faucets and broken pipes around the home. Think about all the ways you now use more water than you really need, such as, taking long showers, washing your car too often with the hose, brushing your teeth while leaving on the tap, doing laundry or dishes and leaving the tap running. Resolve to change these bad habits to conserve more water and lower your water bill.
3. Embark on a community enhancement project
How about enhancing your community’s environs? Think of any aspect of your community that you would like to restore and embark on a plan to get it done. Some good ideas are planting trees, conducting clean-ups, and enhancing parks. Such projects can give you a chance to connect or reconnect with old friends in your community. A cleaner community means clean air and water with plants flourishing, and people enjoying the outdoors.
4. Join or start an environment Club

Joining an environmental club will help you learn more about the environment. Occupy your spare time by planning within your team members fun and interactive activities to explore and learn about your environment. In this way, you will also help to build your communication and other people skills.

5. Use public transportation

With the increasing congestion, especially in the city and other commercial areas, you would save both time and money using public transportation. As far as possible, ride or walk short distances, it’s good for your pocket and the environment.

6. Be an advocate

If you notice someone being errant to the environment, speak out against it. Remember you have to do your part to protect your health and make Guyana beautiful.

Think Green, Act Green, Go Green!

Continue to look for our column in 2017 and be sure to like our Facebook page and follow us.

EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com