The start of a new year can be so refreshing. It’s the perfect opportunity to leave everything in the previous year that you didn’t like. It’s a time to start better habits, trashing the habits that don’t make you a better person. The new year is also the time to have a fresh slate, you don’t have to bring anything into 2018 that you don’t want to. With this fresh start, there are a few things you should consider starting to make not only you a better person, but to also better the world around you.

Donate

Recycling is one of the best things that you can do for the environment. It’s your part in preserving the Earth we get to live on. Recycling doesn’t always mean making sure you sort your papers from your plastics, though. It also means making sure that waste isn’t created and too many items aren’t manufactured. One great way to do your way and recycle this new year is to donate.Take a day and clean out your closet, and then donate everything that you no longer use. Old clothing isn’t the only thing that you can donate, though. You can donate old paint, home goods, and used hardware. Look up where in your community your donated goods would do the most good, and then donate there.

Compost

Utilizing compost for your garden is one of the best ways to recycle. Any food waste that’s natural, such as eggshells and unused vegetables, make the perfect compost. The nutrients found in these foods will make a great fertilizer for your garden. So instead of throwing out your food waste, recycle it via compost and give it another life.

Reusable bags vs plastic bags

When you head to the grocery store, bring along your own grocery bags so you can avoid using the harmful plastic bags. This is a great way to eliminate the need to recycle, and you’re making a great environmental impact.

When you get takeout, don’t take or accept plastic cutlery and paper napkins. Instead, head home and use your own cutlery to eat your takeout. If you really are eating on the go and need to use plastic forks and knives, save them rather than throwing them out. You can either recycle these, or you can wash them and reuse them so they’re actually going to good use.