Putting the Conserve in Conservative

2024 is underway and many people have already begun tackling their new year’s resolutions. From working out to financial goals to personal development, each January we as humans resolve to do better. But what if this year, we commit to being part of the solution to climate change by instituting small changes in our daily life?

One quarter of New Year’s resolutions are abandoned before the end of the first week and nearly half by the end of January, leaving many people discouraged. This isn’t surprising, modifying human behavior and habit is one of the hardest things to do. However, committing to taking small, measurable steps can add up to great impact. For example, one friend resolves to take on a new sustainable goal each year, rather than making all the eco-friendly changes at once. A few years ago, she committed to bringing her own containers to restaurants for leftovers. Last year, she stopped shopping for “fast fashion.” By allowing one practice to become commonplace, she sets herself up for success.

There is no question, the world is at a critical juncture as climate change continues to pose unprecedented challenges, affecting ecosystems, weather patterns, and global temperatures. The clock started ticking on the urgent need for collective action to mitigate its effects yesterday, but today will have to do.