REGION — Small changes in daily habits can have a big impact on our environment. Looking to live more sustainably in 2024, but wondering where to start? The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation compiled a list of lifestyle changes you can incorporate to keep living the green life throughout the year. 

Reduce wasted food 

Gearing up for a big game with a party? This is a good time to reduce wasted food and make sure you use reusable tableware and serving items.

Plan your food accordingly for the number of guests to minimize waste and use reusable containers for leftovers (tip: ask your guests to bring their own reusable containers).

Try green transportation

“Get there green.” Utilize green modes of transportation. Consider carpooling, biking, walking and more. Help reduce emissions and fossil fuel use. 

Let’s go thrifting

Go thrift shopping for items which are “new to you.” You might find bargains and a variety of unique items which can be repurposed or reused. 

Have items you no longer need? Donate them to a local thrift store or charity organization, or resell them yourself. Textiles can also be donated via designated local drop-off bins/boxes.

Proper recycling

Know your local recycling guidelines—these differ between states and even within states. 

Deep breath: learn about air quality 

Open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York State. Learn the criteria for open burning from campfires, bonfires and more. Follow the New York State burn ban, which lasts until May 14.

Give your lawn zero phosphorus

Purchase phosphorus-free lawn fertilizer. Excess phosphorus in bodies of water can cause algae overgrowth, including harmful algal blooms, with serious impacts to the environment and public health.

Learn to compost

Compost garden leftovers, pumpkins, fall leaves, food scraps (such as apple peelings) and more. 

Protect our pollinators

Almost all the world’s seed plants need to be pollinated in order to reproduce. More than 150 U.S. food crops depend on pollination, according to the Forest Service. And without pollinators, the numbers of existing plants would decline.

You can help take action to protect pollinators. Plant a pollinator garden. Choose methods of getting rid of pests carefully—pesticides can also kill beneficial insects.

Learn more about any of the above topics at www.dec.ny.gov/, 

www.fs.usda.gov/ or www.nps.gov/index.htm.