As this year quickly approaches its end I think it is a good time to reflect on my sustainable resolutions I had hoped to accomplish in 2013. This is the list:
1. Keep reducing water usage
2. Be better about buying used or local products.
3. Stay away from these companies that were anti-prop 37.
4. Reduce consumption and waste.
5. Live a minimalist lifestyle as best as I can.
#1 is a constant battle and I am trying to keep this task present in my mind. This summer we drastically reduced our water usage since there was a severe drought in Colorado. We were only allowed to water our lawn twice a week for most of the summer (we are required to water the lawn per our rental agreement), this really reduced our water bill. We also had a much smaller and compact garden which required much less water. By October we were in the midst of potty training, meaning we stopped washing cloth diapers every other day. While I know this uses lots of water, I still feel better about using cloth than disposable diapers. This resolution is an ongoing battle and I doubt I will ever feel like I am doing enough to reduce my water consumption.
#2 I will say I am pretty good about buying used, but buying local is still a challenge. The main challenge is finding a source and then being able to afford that source. I often will hit up Goodwill or a consignment shop for an item I want or need before seeking out a new option.
#3 was probably the easiest resolution. I simply just stopped buying these company products and it eventually became a habit to avoid them.
#4 This is another resolution that I feel I will constantly be battling. I am trying to keep my purchases and everyday tasks within this resolution but sometimes life gets in the way and consuming happens.
#5 Is a lifelong resolution and right now it is fairly easy to stick to due to financial limitations. The less money you have, the less things you will buy. I would love to be able to get a coffee at the local coffeehouse but it just isn’t in the budget. Or I would really love to buy a new pair of shoes but again, it just isn’t in the budget. Having a small house and small annual income makes living a minimalist life rather easy.
I haven’t really thought too much about resolutions for 2014 but I am sure every single one of the above, besides #3, will make the list again. They are life long battles that will need a refocus each year in order to maintain my hope of one day being truly sustainable.
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