I don’t think I’ve ever kept any of my New Year’s resolutions for a full 12 months, which is why I’m making a very simple resolution this year.
In 2009, I resolve to bring a reuseable plastic container with me every time I go out to eat, to avoid bringing home my leftovers in one of those cumbersome clamshell or otherwise-difficult-to-recycle containers.
It’s another small step toward saving the world. It may be a very small step indeed, but it’s one more way to remind me to pay attention, to take a breath and think about what I’m doing, and to consider the impact that my actions have on the environment.
I recycle, I reuse, I’ve been making a conscious effort to reduce the amount of new stuff I buy. I make most of my trips around town on my bicycle (except when there’s a foot of snow on the ground – then I try to use my cross-country skis). This seems like an easy next step to take, and it’s also a way to spread the important message of reuse to others I come in contact with.
I’ll probably forget a few times along the way – I don’t eat out that often, so a new habit may be hard to form – but wish me luck as I try to reduce the amount of trash I, and my family, generate. And now I’m off to stow a few Tupperware containers in my bike bag!
Submitted by Anne
Note: You’ll find more green resolution ideas in our new monthly column “Growing Green Families.” Click here and then go to page 34 or Growing Green Families in the index in the bottom left corner.

January 5th, 2009 | Category: Metro Parent