7 Eco-Friendly Changes I’m Challenging Myself to Make in 2025
There’s no denying that our climate is changing. We’re seeing more frequent once in a lifetime storms, summers are hotter, and winters are shorter. Seeing the constant fluctuations in the weather where I live that were always consistent in the past is making me take a long, hard look at some of the things that I can do as an individual to be more thoughtful, and make choices that benefit the planet. If this is something that’s been on your mind too, I invite you to take a look at these seven changes that I am challenging myself to make in 2025, and beyond.
01. PRIORITIZE BUYING NATURAL FIBRES & AVOID SYNTHETICS WHEN POSSIBLE
Like many of us, so many items in my closet are made of synthetic materials like polyester, spandex, nylon, and acrylic. Polyester in particular is the most used material in clothing in the world… that says a lot. Instead of purchasing anything I want, I’m aiming to prioritize clothing purchases that are made from cotton, linen, and/or wool. Other natural materials include silk, hemp, bamboo, cashmere & more.
02. BUY LESS (IN GENERAL)
Overconsumption is truly out of control. We most definitely consume more than we can, or should, and I will admit that I’m 100% a “shopaholic”. I enjoy the thrill of making a purchase but inevitably, it always fizzles out quickly. My goal is to overall, just purchase much less in 2025, and in the future.
03. BUYING LOCAL PRODUCE FROM THE FARMERS MARKET
Where I live, there’s not many year-round farmers markets that are nearby and accessible, so I’m challenging myself to buy all of our produce from local farmers exclusively while more farmers markets are open in the early spring through fall. Not only is it supporting your local economy & community, but it’s better for the planet too.
04. BIKE OR USE PUBLIC TRANSIT MORE
I’m actually really, really excited about this one because it’s been quite literally years since I’ve rode, let alone owned a bike, and I finally got one just this week (say hello to Betty!). My husband and I decided we wanted to get out more without driving, and the best way to do that is either taking public transit, or getting some bikes & using them to get around, and also just to enjoy each other’s company while getting exercise.
05. TURN OFF/STOP USING AI
I know this probably comes as a major shock to a lot of people, but using AI is actually horrible for the planet. It uses a significant amount of water (like, a lot more than a simple Google search would!), and frankly, it’s just not something I personally think is collectively “good” for society. Do yourself, and the planet a favour & step away from AI.
06. SHOP SECONDHAND
Being a bit of germaphobe, shopping secondhand has been a bit of a challenge for me, but it’s one that I’m determined to overcome. Shopping secondhand is so much better for the planet, and it’s of course, easier on your wallet. I’ve definitely gotten better when it comes to things that have a hard surface & are easy to clean (ex. furniture, decor, etc.), but clothing is the next thing I’m trying to shop secondhand more!
07. LEARN TO FIX THINGS
It’s no secret that just about everything that we purchase now is designed to drastically deteriorate in a very short amount of time in comparison to the way things used to be crafted. Furniture would last generations, now you’re lucky if you get 10 years out of an item. Learning how to fix things like holes in clothes, broken furniture and more, instead of throwing them immediately in the garbage is going to be easier on the planet & save you a lot of money.
What are some changes that you’re trying to make in your life to better the planet? Let me know in the comments below!
