Resolution 2030: Looking to the New Year

As 2021 comes to an end, it seems as most would take this time to look towards the future. Our accomplishments, goals, and of course our resolutions.

But what about the biggest resolution ever created? The 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Our shared vision of humanity and a social contract between the world’s leaders and the people.

With 17 goals and 169 targets to wipe out poverty, fight inequalities and tackle climate change, all by 2030, it's a to-do list for the people and planet, and a blueprint for success.  However, need we not forget, 2020 and 2021 would be remembered as the years of a global health crisis that brought with it immense global suffering.

Thus far in Belize, over 611 persons have sadly passed away due to COVID-19. Thousands more are experiencing the immense pressure of not just a health crisis but a human, economic and social crisis. Especially those more vulnerable such as the elderly, persons in poverty, persons without homes, persons living with family violence, and people on the move, just to name a few.

However, in the darkest times of humanity, we have always been able to persevere. How you might ask? Well, it starts with YOU - by making a practical personal commitment for change.

Have a look at just a few of the many things you can do to make an impact!

Things you can do from your couch

• Save electricity by plugging appliances into a power strip and turning them off completely when not in use, including your computer.
• Stop paper bank statements and pay your bills online or via mobile.
• Turn off the lights. Your TV or computer screen provides a cozy glow, so turn off other lights if you don’t need them.
• Report online bullies. If you notice harassment on a message board or in a chat room, flag that person.

Things you can do from home

• Air dry. Let your hair and clothes dry naturally instead of running a machine. If you do wash your clothes, make sure the load is full.
• Take short showers. Bathtubs require gallons more water than a 5-10 minute shower.
• Eat less meat, poultry, and fish. More resources are used to provide meat than plants
• Compost—composting food scraps can reduce climate impact while also recycling nutrients.
• Buy minimally packaged goods. Take your own bags to the market or store.
• Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models and light bulbs

Things you can do in your neighborhood

• Shop local. Supporting neighborhood businesses keep people employed and helps prevent trucks from driving far distances.
• Let your favorite businesses know that ocean-friendly seafood is on your shopping list. Shop only for sustainable seafood.
• Bike, walk or take public transport. Save the car trips for when you’ve got a big group.
• Use a refillable water bottle and coffee cup.
• Take fewer napkins. You don’t need a handful of napkins to eat your takeout. Take just what you need.
• Donate what you don’t use. Local charities will give your gently used clothes, books, and furniture a new life.
• Take advantage of your right to elect the leaders in your local community.

Things you can do at work

• Give fruits or snacks that you don’t want to someone who needs and is asking for help.
• Does everyone at work have access to healthcare? Find out what your rights are to work. Fight against inequality.
• Mentor young people. It’s a thoughtful, inspiring, and a powerful way to guide someone towards a better future.
• Voice your support for equal pay for equal work.
• Lend your voice to talk about the lack of toilets in many communities around the world!
• Make sure your company uses energy-efficient heating and cooling technology.
• Raise your voice against any type of discrimination in your office. Everyone is equal regardless of their gender, race, sexual orientation, social background, and physical abilities.
• Organize a No Impact Week at work. Learn to live more sustainably for at least a week: un.org/sustainabledevelopment/ be-the-change.

Source: The lazy person’s guide to saving the world. https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/LazyPersonGuide.pdf

There’s no limit to the practical personal commitments you could do! It’s all just one resolution away.

Let’s all commit to making a change, not just for 2022 but for all our future generations to come.