Top 10 New Year's Resolutions for a More Sustainable Lifestyle in 2026

Every year, millions of people set New Year's resolutions to improve their lives. This year, why not focus on making choices that benefit not only you but also the planet? Living sustainably is more than a trend; it’s a necessary shift to protect our environment and ensure a healthier future. We’ve put together ten practical resolutions that anyone can adopt to live more sustainably in the coming year.

1. Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Plastic waste is one of the biggest environmental problems today. To cut down on single-use plastics try carrying a reusable water bottle, shopping with cloth bags, and avoiding plastic straws and cutlery. Small changes like these can prevent tons of plastic from ending up in landfills and oceans. Miss Earth Wales has launched there very own sustainable tote bags and water bottles. Keep your eyes peeled for our limited edition drops in the shop section.

2. Choose Sustainable Transportation

Transportation contributes significantly to carbon emissions. This year, let's plan to walk, bike, or use public transit more often. If driving is necessary, carpooling or switching to an electric or hybrid vehicle can reduce your carbon footprint. Even combining errands into one trip helps save fuel.

3. Eat More Plant-Based Meals

Animal agriculture has a large environmental impact, including high water use and greenhouse gas emissions. Incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet can make a big difference. Starting with “Meatless Mondays” you can find delicious recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition.

4. Support Local and Organic Farmers

Buying local produce reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport. Organic farming also avoids harmful pesticides and supports soil health. Make it a point to visit farmers’ markets or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to get fresh, seasonal food.

5. Cut Energy Use at Home

Energy consumption drives pollution and climate change. Simple actions like switching to LED bulbs, unplugging devices when not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances can lower your energy bills and environmental impact. You can also lower your thermostat a few degrees lower in winter and higher in summer to save energy.

6. Reduce Water Waste

Water is a precious resource, and wasting it harms ecosystems. We recommend installing low-flow shower heads and fixing leaks promptly. Turning off the tap while brushing teeth and collecting rainwater for gardening are easy ways to conserve water daily.

7. Practice Mindful Consumption

Before buying something new, ask yourself if you really need it. Mindful consumption means choosing quality over quantity, repairing items instead of replacing them, and buying secondhand when possible. This reduces waste and the demand for resource-intensive manufacturing.

8. Compost Organic Waste

Food scraps and yard waste make up a large portion of landfill material. Composting turns organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, reducing methane emissions from landfills. A small compost bin in the backyard can improve your garden’s health and cut down on trash.

9. Use Eco-Friendly Personal Care Products

Many personal care products contain chemicals harmful to the environment. Switching to biodegradable soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste helps reduce pollution. Also, look for products with minimal packaging or refill options to cut down on waste.

10. Get Involved and Educate Others

Sustainability is a community effort. Join local environmental groups and share what you learn with friends and family. Whether it’s volunteering for cleanups or advocating for green policies, collective action amplifies individual efforts.