Here’s some good news as the holidays wrap up: Many New Year’s resolutions people already make—eating healthier, saving money, getting organized—double as climate-friendly habits.
Whether you want to spend less, declutter or eat right, here are a few choices that could make a difference for you and the climate.
Bonus: They’re all low-effort and low-cost.
If you want to save money, start at home. Electronics and appliances can continue drawing power even when they’re turned off. You can cut phantom energy use by unplugging items you’re not using, such as chargers and entertainment systems or using a power strip with an on-off switch.
Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees when you’re not home can also reduce energy use and save money. The United States Department of Energy says that adjusting the thermostat by 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit (4-6 degrees Celsius) for eight hours a day can save up to 10 percent a year on heating and cooling.
Wash with cold water
Another simple tip: Washing your clothes on the cold setting and air-drying them when possible can help lower energy use and utility costs.
Heating water is the biggest energy draw in laundry, and clothes dryers are among the most energy-intensive household appliances, said Matthew Gonzales, vice chair of the National Hispanic Energy Council, which advocates for affordable energy for communities of color. This can also reduce wear and tear on clothing.
