Happy New Year from Reuse Minnesota! This season allows us to reflect on our year and gives us the chance to make the changes we’ve been looking to make. Regardless of your 2023 resolutions and goals, remember to be proud of the work accomplished this past year and to keep an eye out for opportunities to come.

When viewing the magnitude of environmental issues, it can be easy to become overwhelmed, but don’t worry! If you are looking to live more sustainably and incorporate reuse and repair into your everyday life, start with habits that make sense for you. For individuals just starting to think about reuse in their lives, a good first step is to incorporate reusable items for everyday convenience. This could be putting tote bags in your car for shopping, packing a reusable water bottle  or straw with you , or  purchasing  items that are sold in reusable packaging. If you have already incorporated these changes into your routine, consider bringing your reusable containers to restaurants for leftovers, or to grocery stores for produce and bulk items. 

If you are looking to challenge yourself in the new year and make the biggest impact, start thinking about where you do your shopping and choose the most sustainable options. Learn where you can shop for reused items in the Twin Cities area on Reuse Minnesota’s member directory. If you need some new-to-you clothes, decor, or entertainment consider shopping second hand. You'll save some money and find one-of-a-kind items! Planning a remodel in 2023? Be sure to incorporate reused materials into your design and take any usable items you remove to one of our members who sell used building materials.

If being more creative is one of your resolutions for 2023, take the time to think of ways to repurpose household items and think creatively about reuse.. There are many different DIY projects that you can pursue with materials that would otherwise be considered waste. And if you are not a DIY type, check with your local schools or childcare centers, as many will gladly accept items such as excess craft supplies, magazines, and egg cartons. 

If you are looking for more information or ways to be sustainable in the new year, read this Living Green 365 post from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and check out the resources we have available on our website. To help motivate you,  we share our staff and board’s reuse resolutions for 2023 in the video below!