Sustainable New Year’s resolutions from the Two Oceans Aquarium

As a fresh new year begins, many of us feel inspired to reset our habits and set intentions that bring more meaning into our everyday lives. One of the most rewarding commitments we can make is choosing to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Sustainability doesn’t need to be overwhelming, expensive, or complicated - in fact, some of the most impactful changes are the simplest ones.

If you’re looking for meaningful New Year’s resolutions that benefit both you and the environment, here are practical eco-friendly habits you can start adopting today that will not break the budget:

1. Wash your car and water the garden with a bucket, not a hosepipe

Using a bucket drastically reduces water waste compared to the continuous flow of a hosepipe. It helps you stay conscious of how much water you're using, and it’s often just as effective. For gardens, a bucket lets you direct water where it's truly needed: Right at the roots, helping plants thrive while conserving water.

2. Make reusable bags part of your everyday routine

Plastic bags may cost less, but their environmental cost is massive. Think about it - a plastic bag can only be used once, but reusable bags can be used repeatedly. Switching to sturdy reusable bags is a simple habit that quickly becomes second nature. Keep a few in your car, handbag, or near the front door so you never get caught without one.

3. Say no to the straw

Straws are among the top items found at beach cleanups, and most are used for just a few minutes before landing in landfill. Saying “no, thank you” is a small but powerful act. If you love using straws, try reusable ones made of stainless steel, glass, or silicone.

4. Take showers instead of baths

Showers, especially shorter ones, use significantly less water than filling a bathtub. Try timing your showers or setting small goals, like playing a single song and finishing your shower before it ends. You’ll be surprised how much water you save without sacrificing comfort.

5. Reduce single-use plastics

From water bottles to takeaway cups, single-use items add up fast. You can easily cut down your waste by switching to:

• A reusable water bottle
• A durable coffee mug
• A lunchbox or food container
• Refillable toiletries (where available)

Not only are these alternatives sustainable, but they also last longer, look great, and save you money in the long run.

6. Compost your organic waste

Food scraps, fruit and vegetable peels, and garden clippings don’t belong in the bin - they’re full of nutrients. Composting reduces landfill waste and creates rich soil you can use in your garden. Even if you have limited space, small countertop composters make it easy.

7. Unplug not devices when they're not in use

Many appliances continue to draw power even when they are turned off. These “energy vampires” include chargers, microwaves, TVs, and gaming consoles. Make it a habit to unplug devices you’re not using or use a power strip you can switch off with one tap.

8. Start a garden (even a small one!)

Growing your own herbs, veggies, or flowers is deeply rewarding and surprisingly easy. Gardens (big or small) support biodiversity, reduce your carbon footprint, and give you fresh produce right at home. Even a sunny windowsill can become a mini herb garden.

9. Use less water in everyday tasks

Tiny adjustments make a big difference:

• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
• Wash dishes in a sink of water instead of letting the tap run
• Fix dripping taps
• Use a cup for rinsing when brushing teeth or shaving

Saving water is one of the simplest and most impactful habits to adopt.

10. Wash your clothes in cold water and on the slowest setting

Modern detergents and washing machines work incredibly well in cold water. This switch lowers your electricity bill, preserves your clothing for longer, and reduces your household’s energy use. Washing your clothes in cold water and on the slowest setting also reduces the shedding of microplastics. It’s a win for both your clothes and the planet!

A greener year starts with simple choices

Sustainable living isn't about being perfect - it's about being mindful. Each of these resolutions is small on its own, but together, they create meaningful change. As you step into the new year, let your daily habits reflect the world you want to help build, which is cleaner, kinder, and more sustainable.

Here’s to a year filled with intention, care, and greener choices!