NEW YORK — The fight against climate change requires the mass cooperation of industries, companies, governments and communities, but individuals have a role to play, too.
Little things make a difference, and feel good too.
At the dawn of 2024, also known as New Year’s resolution season, here’s just a handful of small, easily achievable ways to lead more climate-friendly lives:
“Once you start noticing how much food you throw out, it’s a simple shift to start thinking about how you can use your excess groceries before they go bad,” she said.
Better, plan grocery shopping more strategically so you have little to no excess. Buy only what you need, even if BOGO is on!
Other steps: Commit to eating all your leftovers. Keep a sharp eye on expiration dates so you use foods in time. Buy locally grown, in-season fruits and vegetables. Invest in glass or bamboo containers for food storage. Freeze things.
And then there’s composting food scraps.
“This one can be easy, so long as you consistently take your compost out and wash the bucket,” said Baker. No meat or dairy products in the compost pile, she cautions.
“For an easier solution, there are some machines like the Lomi that turn your fruit and veggie scraps into nutrient-rich plant food. Just keep in mind that they’re pricier than your standard compost bin,” Baker said.
Is takeout your routine? Jono Waks, 55, in Brooklyn requests that his orders come with no plastic utensils.