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New Year, New Goals | Health, Wellbeing & Planet

zero waste blog
2020 marks both the beginning of a new year and a new decade. Now more than ever is a time for all of us to consider our lifestyle choices and the impact that they have on our health, our wellbeing and those around us, and just as importantly on the planet.

  • NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, NEW GOALS

    When setting health and wellness goals for yourself and your family we encourage you to add the planet’s health to your list of goals. Together we need to do all we can to support the rejuvenation of our precious earth and its finite resources, and where possible educate and encourage others to do the same.

    Here at The Source we are big believers in planning for action and change. So we have compiled a list of tips and examples to help you map out your goals this year. Have a read and we hope that you find some inspiration.

    Happy 2020, we look forward to going on the journey together.

  • SETTING NEW YEAR GOALS

    For many their journey to low waste is at it’s beginning. And we know that change can be hard. In fact, did you know that research has consistently shown that if you try to change more than one habit it is less likely that any will stick. So for 2020 we are setting you an easy challenge – make one zero waste swap and make it stick. So what will you do?

    Use beeswax wraps or silicon lids instead of plastic wrap? Shop more at The Source Bulk Foods? Say no to plastic straws and single-use coffee cups? Perhaps you and your family can pick up rubbish every time you visited the beach or park, or join a litter pick in your local area? Whatever you decide to do, we would love to know.

    Here are a few more suggestions (not all low-waste based) for your new year goals. Don’t be overwhelmed – simply choose one and try to make the commitment stick. Your planet (and your soul) will thank you.

  • HEALTH AND WELLNESS GOALS

    • Drive less. Instead walk, bike, carpool and take public transport.
    • Spend more time in nature.
    • Commit to a fitness challenge at your local gym or yoga studio.
    • Buy a month-long Pilates or yoga pass.
    • Pencil in a weekly walking date with a family member or friend.
    • Practise moments of deep breathing throughout the day. Encourage the rest of the family to do the same especially before eating meals.
    • Learn something new like how to surf, snowboard or ski.
    • Eat less meat.
    • Eat more wholefoods and grains.
    • Eat with the seasons.
    • Increase your vegetable, fruit, nuts and seeds intake.
    • If you can, buy organic food from farmers and local grocers in your area.
    • Write a weekly meal plan and shop accordingly.
    • Each month empty your pantry and do a big cook up with lentils, lasagne sheets and the random bits and bobs at the back of the cupboard.
    • Subscribe to the “no cup, no coffee” rule. If you don’t have a reusable mug, say no to a coffee.
    • Subscribe to a no water in a plastic bottle. In the UK we are lucky to have safe quality drinking water.
    • Buy cruelty-free, non-toxic beauty products.
    • Avoid synthetics and chemicals in beauty (try our new gentle Soap Bar) and cleaning products.

  • ZERO WASTE GOALS FOR THE PLANET

     

    • Use Beeswax Wraps or our Warrior Lunch Box to store food and leftovers.
    • Say no to plastic straws, single-use coffee cups and smoothie/juice cups and takeaway cutlery.
    • Start your own herb or vegetable garden. If you already have your own, encourage and help someone else start theirs.
    • Gift yourself one of our reusable cutlery packs, water bottles, coconut shell bowls (great for camping or work), coffee cups or produce bags. Check out the full range at your nearest store.
    • Pick up three pieces of rubbish every time you visit the beach or national park.
    • Watch or read an inspiring environmental documentary once a month. You could start with climate change documentary, 2040.
    • Start a capsule wardrobe. This is a collection of clothes and accessories that includes only items considered essential.
    • Repair old clothes rather than throw them away or, if you must, gift worn clean clothes to charity.
    • Regularly donate to charities focused on ocean or land conservation, tree re-wilding, or animal welfare.
    • Use non-toxic cleaning products in your home.
    • Instead of taking trips overseas try to travel local and explore the UK. Take an empty cooler and fill it up with local produce. Stay a few days and give your money to the communities that need it most.
    • Wash your clothes in cold water and sun-dry them outside.
    • Spend less time in the shower.
    • Look into solar for your home or work.
    • Switch to a green energy supplier for your home or work.
    • Move your superannuation, insurance and banking over to sustainable and ethical funds that don’t invest in fossil fuels.
    • Write, email and speak to your local, state and federal government representatives about issues that are important to you.
    • Carbon-offset your travel.
    • Organise a clothing swap with your friends.
    • Choose to rent an outfit for that next special occasion instead of buying.
    • Volunteer your time at an organisation you care about.
    • Regularly share the many ways you are helping the planet with your friends and family. Check out this informative Guide to Climate Change that you can also share with others.
    • Buy in bulk at The Source Bulk Foods – we always love seeing your friendly faces in store!

  • Need more inspiration or want to find the ingredients? Visit your local store to browse the aisles with over 400 quality products. Our friendly and knowledgeable team are on hand to provide you with all the recommendations and assistance you may need.

    FIND YOUR NEAREST STORE

     

If you have any ideas for other blog topics that you would like to see please don’t hesitate to let us know on [email protected] or via the Contact Us form on this site.