Easy + Eco New Years Resolutions

As 2019 draws to a close, we can all expel a collective deep breath. Environmentally it's been a year of high highs and low lows. While some countries are making leaps and bounds in legislation, vowing to reduce single-use plastics and cutting down emissions, others continue to drag their feet and continue to resist the need to change. 

It is incredibly easy to get caught up in the chaos and crises we're facing globally, while politicians stick their heads in the sand.

However, here at Kappi, we think it's important to remember that we can all make a difference in helping our planet recover. No matter how big or small, our everyday choices impact the world around us.

Here are some of our New Years Resolutions that Kappi HQ are implementing in order to support our planet. See how many you can accomplish in 2020 (although we're sure you're already implementing some if not all of these already!)

- Always carry a reusable silicone bag

This one is super simple and self-explanatory. We love our string Cotton Grocery Bags because they can fold up and fit at the bottom of your bag! Never be caught off guard again. 

- Bring your lunch to work

Not only will this save you a lot of money every single day, it cuts out an extreme amount food and plastic wastage. Sure, it can feel like a hassle thinking ahead, but future you will thank you for it. If you can't be bothered making separate lunches, bring leftovers! 

- Bring your own Coffee Cup / Water Bottle / Lunch Container / Cutlery

This one is really, really easy. We can make all the excuses in the world for forgetting our reusables, but it's a no brainer when you realise how much waste an individual can create in a year. Leave your coffee cup at work, along with cutlery and a spare container to take with you if you forgot to pack your lunch. Most restaurants and food places will be chuffed to put your takeaway in your own container! You'll also be saving money as well, as lots of cafes will offer discounts or incentives to bring your own mug.

- Try your hand at composting

Each year every Australian household throws away $1,036 worth of food that ends up in landfill. When food is disposed of this way, the scraps break down and release methane. By composting your scraps, you'll directly be helping to lower greenhouse gas emissions! There are lots of ways your household can compost your food scraps, do some research and find the best choice for you. 

- Go paperless

45% of the paper used in an office is discarded in a single day. Let your banks, employers and anyone else who might send you documents or bills in the mail know that you're going paperless. Most institutions have an option to make your choice known by the simple click of a button!  

- Swap to an ethical Super Fund / Bank

This is something we've been thinking about doing for such a long time and we've decided that 2020 is the time for action! We believe you should be able to make an informed decision on what your hard earned dollars are being invested in. It's something that requires a little more research, but we're up for the challenge and think you should be too! Stay tuned for a Kappi Blog post in the new year detailing how to make the right choice for you. 

- Swap your tap and shower faucets

As a country that's constantly in drought, saving water is something that hits pretty close to home. Swapping out your hardware is a pretty simple and cheap way to be more conservative with our natural resources. You don't even need a plumber to do it for you anymore. After watching a couple of Youtube videos, you'll be an expert in no time. 

- Meatless Mondays 

If you aren't a vegetarian or vegan, cutting out meat from your diet as little as one day a week can have a huge impact on your health and reducing your own carbon footprint! It's also a lot cheaper, which we won't say no to. There are some fantastic vegan and vegetarian recipes out there (we even have some of our own on this very blog) we recommend giving them a go

- Avoid Fast Fashion

This one's a no-brainer for us, as we love an op shop bargain. If you like to shop- you should consider creating a capsule wardrobe or simply be more mindful of your purchases. There are so many resources available to help you shop sustainably- we're huge fans of Ethical Made Easy, but even Online stores like The Iconic are alerting you about 'considered' brands that are ethical and sustainable. 

We're also really big on mending anything damaged before buying a replacement. You'll have more pride in your items and it's a much cheaper alternative

- Walk more!

First and foremost- it's good for you! Walking is a great way to get some exercise in for the day, but it's also really great for your mental health. Use it as a way to get some ever important me-time or call your mum or mate for a chat. Public transport and riding your bike are a few other easy alternatives to reduce your carbon footprint and your stress levels. Say goodbye to road rage and parking anxiety 

- Plant a tree (or two)

Clean air is pretty darn important and it's getting harder to come by. Gardening is an awesome way to directly offset carbon emissions being created around the globe. If you don't have your own garden, you can donate to some awesome projects like One Tree Planted who are actively combatting deforestation and areas affected by fires.