I have mixed feelings about New Year’s resolutions, probably because I’ve had mixed results following through on them.

Despite my best intentions, I haven’t learned a new language, run a marathon, or published my novel. But this article isn’t about those works in progress (yes, I still call them that). No, this is an article about flossing.

Yes, flossing.

By far, the most successful resolution I’ve ever actually accomplished is flossing every day. How did I do it? Easy: that was my only resolution. It was short. It was simple. And that’s why I believe it worked.

And so, I present to you a condensed list of resolutions—with the help of Lane County Master Recycler Program Coordinator Kelly Bell— you can make to improve your efforts to live more sustainably. Do them all, do a few, or choose one.

And if you stumble in your efforts, get back on the horse and keep trying. The key is, do something! Soon enough, you’ll be well on your way to healthy gums, er, living sustainably.

Recycle Right

Do you have unused, unwanted, or broken electronics? Bring them to NextStep Recycling in Eugene to give them a second life!

Repair what you have instead of buying new

Your personal repair coach is just a click or two away. Kelly Bell shares how this resource has elevated her repair game.

Put Your Money in a Sustainable Bank

Do you know if your bank is invested in fossil fuels? Or how much of the money it makes goes back into your community? Learn how you can match your banking practices with your sustainability values. Reassessing your finances is one of the most powerful actions you can take as a consumer or business to address the climate crisis.

Lower your Energy Bills

Consider using cold water when you wash your clothes to save energy. Over the year, your energy and cost savings can add up.

Reduce Food Waste and Save Money

Learn how to properly store your food to save money and keep organic materials from the waste stream.

Get Out of Your Car When You Can

Take a “jump“ toward sustainable transportation practices and more with simple, easy steps.

Download and Use the Waste Wise Lane County Guide to Sustainability

Lane County Waste Management produces this comprehensive guide that contains information on waste prevention, garbage, recycling, reducing household toxins, and more.

Find more of Kelly’s monthly tips at Instagram.com/wastewiselanecounty. Happy New Year!