A New Year's Resolution for the Planet

Dear Editor,

Are you over 'White Christmas?' What if I suggested a new one: 'Green New Year?'

It's the end of 2024 and greenhouse emissions are higher than they've ever been, despite the renewable energy transition; we just set the worldwide record for hottest year in recorded history. I very much think it's time we embrace a Green New Year.

What might that look like for you? Could you make the switch from plastic bags to cotton, the switch from a gas-powered car to an EV, the switch from meat seven days a week to Meatless Mondays (or more)? Could you invest in an e-bike and cut out short car rides, could you install solar panels, or start buying plastic-free gum? (look it up - average gum is plastic-based!)

Life isn't defined by what you can buy, however - so can you engage friends in family in climate discussions, can you reuse a plastic bag and grab trash when you're out for a walk, or advocate for climate-friendly policies on your social media?

2025 can be the year we turn this ship around. The political odds may be stacked against the environment this year and beyond, but that's never stopped the American people before - we fight for the causes we hold dear. This year, make your personal goal a healthy and livable planet.

Sincerely,

Nathan Dombeck

Janesville, WI