New Years Eco resolutions

As we enter 2015, many minds will be filled with promises for the coming year. 'go to the gym', 'eat healthier', 'spend less time on the Internet'. The changes we promise to make seem big to us but we are half way through January and how many resolutions have you broken already? What about considering a resolution that benefits not just you but the wider environment? Here are some green resolutions that are so easy to keep. Not only will they decrease waste but improve the quality of the earth. Take the plunge for 2015!

1. Remember your reusable bags
Here in Oman, the amount of plastic bags used is phenomenal. Supermarket packers often put single items into bags, sending shoppers home with a staggering amount of plastic after a weekly shop. More than 1 million bags end up in the trash every minute. Taking reusable bags is one of the easiest and most effective ways of reducing your carbon footprints. Most supermarkets sell reusable bags so what are you waiting for?

2. Limit bottled water
Depending on the quality of your local supply, switching to tap water, an at home filtering system or even large dispenser bottles are far better than using lots of small bottles. 1.5 million barrels of oil are used to make plastic water bottles each year. Opt for a refillable alternative such as glass, aluminium or recycled plastic and nature will thank you!

3. Cut down on paper towels
3000 tonnes of paper towels end up in landfill each year so opt for cotton cloths that can be washed instead.

4. Try being a weekend vegetarian
Meat free meals a couple of days a week can reduce your carbon footprint by a huge amount. Not only will it reduce your environmental impact but will help you in your way to a healthy 5 a day.

5. Switch off those devices!
How many of us have left our chargers plugged in and switched on? It takes no time at all to switch if that plug and eliminate phantom power. Unplug fully charged devices and turn off appliances rather than putting them in standby mode. All of which will make a huge difference.

All of these make a big environmental difference without needing a drastic change. So take the plunge for a greener 2015 !