Green resolutions for 2012

AS A new year begins, it is usual to reflect on the accomplishments, failures, happy times and disappointments of the past year and vow to chart a different course in the coming one.   We lament resolutions made and how soon we gave up on many of them. However, to ensure that we achieve our resolutions for 2012, we need to make simple resolutions instead of aiming for huge, unrealistic ones. Since protection of the environment is a very popular topic these days, we can decide to make some green resolutions.
Here are some ideas for you to consider:
Buy local. Buying food from local markets is healthier, as food is fresher and it also benefits the local economy. Buying local also reduces pollution, as products do not have to be shipped from halfway around the world.
Eat healthier. Eating more fresh vegetables, and less meat and processed foods are not only healthy, but also fits in with a green lifestyle. While not everyone is ready to become 100% vegetarian, there is little doubt that eating less meat is one of the fastest ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Pick one or two days a week where you will only cook vegetarian food.

Quit smoking. Apart from damaging your health, cigarettes are a huge source of litter – plus there is nothing eco-friendly about the pesticides, deforestation, paper use, and waste output of cigarette production. 
Take your bicycle out of the shed. If you have to travel less than a mile to get to work or go to the supermarket, start riding. This will give you the opportunity to enjoy nature while reducing your carbon footprint.
Use public transport/carpool more. Start using public transport to go to work or school. One day in the week can be designated carpool day. This simple act will bring you closer with your neighbours and help cut down on pollution.
Become a toxic-free household. From beauty products to clothes detergent and household cleaners, we have become used to toxic products in our daily lives. The time has come to stop this trend. When buying new products, check what they are made of, and pick the ones with less ammonia, chlorine and acids that will have the least toxic residues. Use more natural products such as lemon juice, vinegar and salt.
The most popular advice for keeping resolutions is to keep them simple: look at small changes you can make to reach your long-term goals. And remember you do not have to achieve all at once; choose one, or maybe two, goals and focus on those.
You can share ideas and questions by sending your letters to: ‘Our Earth, Our Environment’, C/o EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email eit.epaguyana@gmail.com

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