Happy New Year! As the calendar turns to 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the impact we’ve had and set intentions for the year ahead. Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a way of life that empowers each of us to contribute to a healthier planet, thriving communities, and a brighter future.
To help you kick off 2025 with purpose, we’ve put together a guide featuring how to be sustainable this year. From adjusting your daily habits to engaging with your community, these tips will show you how small, mindful actions can lead to big changes. Whether you’re a seasoned sustainability advocate or just beginning your journey, there’s something here for everyone.
Why Sustainability Matters in 2025
This year, our collective efforts to combat climate change, reduce waste, and support local ecosystems are more critical than ever. By learning how to be sustainable in our daily routines, we can not only reduce our carbon footprint but also inspire those around us to take action. Together, we have the power to create a ripple effect that benefits the environment and strengthens our communities.
Each action you take not only helps the planet but also builds resilience in your community, creating a network of people and practices committed to sustainability.
Let’s Make 2025 a Year of Impact!
At Sustaining Way, we’re excited about the possibilities that 2025 holds. Together with our community of passionate individuals, we’re ready to continue building a world where sustainability is at the forefront. Whether you’re joining us in our volunteer gardening programs, attending one of our workshops, or sharing your journey on social media, we can’t wait to see what we accomplish together!
Explore our full guide above and discover how to be sustainable in easy, actionable ways. Don’t forget to share your sustainability goals and successes with us on social media — we’d love to cheer you on and learn from your experiences!
Here’s to a sustainable and impactful 2025. Let’s make it a year to remember!
Quick links:
– Greenlink routes
– TD Farmers Market
– SW Secondhand Shopping Guide
– Trees Upstate website
How to be Sustainable in the New Year (text version)
Volunteer in a Community Garden: Spend time at Sustaining Way’s demonstration site and/or community gardens and help us grow fresh, nutritious food for distributions! It’s a great way to connect with nature and like-minded people and give back to the community.
Choose Sustainable Transportation: Walk, bike, carpool, or take public transit to reduce your carbon footprint. See the Greenlink routes at https://www.greenvillesc.gov/1179/Route-Map. Remember, you can use the Trolley for FREE to get around downtown!
Support Local Farmers: Buy produce from farmers’ markets. Greenville has the Saturday Market by TD. For more info, check out https://www.saturdaymarketlive.com/
Reduce Waste: Swap single-use plastics for reusable items (ex: tupperware instead of ziploc bags for leftovers/snacks on the go), recycle properly (remember glass can’t be recycled in GVL, and neither can flexible plastics like plastic bags!) (many grocery stores have plastic bag drop-offs by the front of the store), and try composting food scraps at home (or bring them to Annie’s house and let us compost them for you… or make a veggie broth from leftover veggie scraps!).
Shop Secondhand: Thrift for clothing, furniture, and gifts to save money and reduce waste (check out our secondhand shopping guide!).
Protect Pollinators: Plant native flowers, avoid harmful pesticides! Life hack, use boiling water for a chemical-free way to get rid of weeds instead of herbicides!
Plant Trees: Trees absorb CO2 and provide critical habitat for wildlife. Consider reaching out to Trees Upstate to plant one in your yard or community.
Get Involved: Whether it’s us or another nonprofit with a mission that aligns with your personal values, get involved in your community and volunteer! It’s so rewarding to make a positive difference through hands-on work.