Resolutions for a greener 2023

The team at Greener Kirkcaldy have been making their New Year’s Resolutions. Here are some of the changes they are planning to make in 2023.

John, Development Worker (Cycling Outreach) – I plan to do more miles on my bike than last year! I want to get out of my car and start commuting on two wheels. I’m also going to look into taking a bike packing trip in 2023.

Rebecca, Programme Manager – I intend to stop treating speed limits on motorways and dual carriageways as the target speed, and when possible drive at a far more fuel-efficient 55-60mph on these roads. However, to be successful at this I will also need to train myself to leave earlier!

Caroline, Volunteer Coordinator  – I’m going to try to reduce my carbon footprint by ditching the car and walking or cycling more for shorter journeys. I have also bought a multi-cooker which slow cooks, pressure cooks, sautés, bakes, air frys and steams. This uses less energy than a conventional oven and hob. I have only had my oven on once since buying it. I want to learn more recipes to continue to cook in this energy efficient way.

Sam, Community Chef – I am going to attempt to eat more slowly and more mindfully and ideally sitting down!

Lauren, Development Manager – My resolution is to think more about how I travel for holidays and plan a trip to Europe on the train. I haven’t flown since before lockdown and I don’t miss it!

Suzy, Chief Executive – My resolution is to draught-proof my home. I live in a 1930s semi, which is quite cosy apart from bad draughts in a couple of the downstairs rooms.  I’ll follow online advice from the Energy Saving Trust and I’ve also booked a Cosy Kingdom energy advice visit for support.

Craig Leitch, Senior Development Worker – My New Year’s Resolution is to switch to oat milk. I’m already mostly vegetarian, only occasionally eating meat if I’m out at a restaurant. So the obvious next step is to tackle dairy. But will I cope with oat milk in my tea? And will I ever take the terrifying next step and give up cheese!? Bring on 2023!

Blythe, Business Development and Retail Assistant – Having just seen my Strava report for this year, my resolution is to do more miles on my bike. After all, if isn’t on Strava it didn’t happen! 😉

Ea, Community Engagement Team Manager – My resolution is to get all the women in my house to try plastic free period products. Did you know that you can get them for free along with the “normal” products? We’ve been hesitant to try because they seemed expensive, but now there’s not reason not to.

Rory, Communications Lead – I want to grow more fruit and veg on my allotment including Jerusalem artichoke, raspberries and kale. I’m also looking at installing solar battery storage to reduce my household carbon footprint.

Pat, Board Member – This New Year my resolution is to go back to the basics and think about the four R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rethink. Reducing is the most important way to limit my impact on the environment.  I will try not to buy items I do not need  – including clothes – and only replace items which are beyond repair.  I will also try not to buy items that have excessive packaging. Any items I can no longer use, but are still usable, will be donated to a charity shop for someone else to reuse. Before an item is thrown away I will check to see if all or part of it can be recycled. I will also try to think about how my actions affect the environment.

What will you do in 2023 to live more lightly on the planet?

If you’ve been inspired to make a positive change in 2023 please let us know by tagging us on social media or emailing social@greenerkirkcaldy.org.uk.

Changing your routine can be difficult. Check out some top tips from Climate Action Fife that can help new behaviours become habits.

Happy New Year from everyone at Greener Kirkcaldy!