Giving Compass' Take:

• Victoria Rodriguez, writing for Mashable, offers suggestions on how to change old habits into new ones that will help the environment in 2019. 

• How can company-wide initiatives focused on environmental causes make a difference in 2019? 

• Read the Giving Compass Environmental Issues guide for donors. 

At the start of January, people typically make resolutions about health, money, and relationships, with the mindset of "new year, new me." In 2019, they need to add environmental goals to the list.

Last year was one of the hottest years on record, and rising temperatures along with climate-related changes are affecting the Arctic, wildlife, and people across the world. In November, a national report confirmed climate change is hurting Americans' quality of life, especially in lower-income neighborhoods and in some communities of color.

There are subtle things you can do in your everyday life to help protect and preserve the environment.

Here are five habits to break and make in 2019:

  • Old habit: Buy individual plastic water bottles. New habit: Drink from a reusable bottle 
  • Old habit: Pollute water with plastic microfibers. New habit: Switch up your washer settings 
  • Old habit: Use rush shipping for your online purchases. New habit: Focus on sustainable shopping
  • Old habit: Eat meat every day of the week. New habit: Vary your diet and explore plant-based options
  • Old habit: Throw away your food. New habit: Make a compost pile

Read the full article about new years resolutions that help the environment by Victoria Rodriguez at Mashable