The New Year means a fresh slate and a time to make changes in your life.  Implementing cleaner, greener alternatives can make a difference in, not only you and your family’s lives, but also the world as a whole. Here are 10 simple changes you can make in 2020 towards sustainability:

1. Use a reusable water bottle, coffee cup and take-out containers. Switching from plastic bottles, cups and containers is so easy and makes a huge difference. Single-use plastic vessels often end up in landfills forever, while glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers can be used essentially forever. Not only are you helping to save the earth, you will be saving money.
   
2. Revamp your kitchen and pantry. Look for storage options for your fridge and pantry that are stainless steel, glass and ceramic, instead of plastic. Use reusable cloths and towels instead of paper. Buy in bulk, rather than foods that are in cardboard boxes or plastic. When heading to the grocery store remember your reusable bags each and every time — just keep them in your car so you always have them on hand. 
3. Look for car options that are hybrid, electric or solar. The New Year is a time many are considering switching out their cars. Consider an eco-friendly car to save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. Another great option is to carpool when you can to places like work. When possible walk, bike or use public transportation to get to your destination. 
4. Reduce your water usage. Taking shorter showers, shutting off the faucet when brushing your teeth and washing your face and reducing your water usage outside can save a lot of water. 
5. Stop printing. When at a store ask for your receipt to be emailed to you rather than printed. Sign up for online bill pay rather than having your bills mailed to you. 
6. Look for composting opportunities in your area. Rather than recycling or throwing out your food and items, learn about composting and look into what options exist around you. 
7. Reduce your energy usage. Get an energy assessment on your home to see how you can reduce your energy bills and what changes you can implement to make your home more efficient. This can include unplugging items when not in use, switching to energy efficient appliances and switching out your lightbulbs. 
8. Reduce, reuse, recycle. This is an easy change you can make if you aren’t doing it already. Most towns have recycling programs in place.  Look into what can and cannot be recycled in your municipality. And when you are done with an item that cannot be recycled, look into upcycling it by donating it to someone who has a use for it. 
9. Get rid of the chemicals. Find green alternatives to your cleaning products, both inside and outside your home. Eco-friendly cleaning products can be found easily at most local grocery stores. 
10. Go solar. Save money and be energy independent. Find out more by visiting our website http://sunrisesolarllc.com/; or call, 914-762-7622.

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