Five nature-friendly new Year’s resolutions
January is full of good intentions. We promise ourselves we’ll exercise more, spend less, or completely reinvent our lives, but then we feel deflated when those resolutions don’t stick.
All-or-nothing goals are hard to stick to, especially in the depths of winter. So instead of feeling guilty about giving something up, why not swap quick fixes for small, meaningful changes that actually feel good?
Here are five nature-friendly New Year’s resolutions that can change the planet, and improve your wellbeing at the same time.
1. Volunteer for nature
Volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to create positive change. By giving a little of your time, you can help protect rivers, wildlife, and green spaces while also boosting your own wellbeing.
At Ribble Rivers Trust, our volunteers help with everything from habitat management and tree planting to citizen science and community events. Volunteering is a great way to get outdoors, learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and feel part of something bigger- all while doing something meaningful for the environment.
2. Live more sustainably
Living sustainably doesn’t mean changing everything overnight. None of us are perfect!
One idea is to try something like Keep Britain Tidy’s Buy Nothing New Month. Even if you start halfway through the month it still counts. Buying less, repairing what you already have, and making more thoughtful choices can save money and reduce waste.
If you do find yourself with a little extra spare change, you could even turn it into something positive by supporting environmental charities and local conservation work!
3. Make your garden a haven for wildlife
Your garden, or any outdoor space you have access to, can be a vital refuge for wildlife.
Simple actions like feeding birds, leaving areas of grass to grow wild, creating log piles, or planting native species can make a huge difference. Winter is also the perfect time to plan. Thinking ahead now gives you something to look forward to as spring and summer approach, and helps nature thrive when it needs it most.
Explore our previous blog posts for hints and tips!
4. Spend time in wild spaces to support your mental wellbeing
Nature has a remarkable ability to help us slow down, reset, and reconnect.
Visiting rivers, woodlands, and wild places can be a powerful form of mindfulness. It might seem silly if you’re not used to it, but there is nothing more peaceful than taking a deep breath and reflecting on your surroundings. Try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method. It’s simple: name 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch or feel, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.
It’s a gentle way to become more present and appreciate the natural world around you. For more information, check out the Mind website.
5. Learn a new skill through citizen science
Learning something new keeps our brains active and curious, and citizen science is a brilliant way to do that while helping the environment.
From monitoring water quality to surveying wildlife, citizen science allows people to contribute valuable data that helps shape conservation action. It’s hands-on, social, and incredibly rewarding, giving you a deeper understanding of your local environment and the challenges it faces.
You don’t need to be an expert- just a passion for nature and a willingness to give it a go!
Progress over perfection
So, if your New Year’s resolutions haven’t gone to plan, you just need to choose some new nature-friendly resolutions that will help to change the planet!
Rivers are at the heart of our local landscapes. Whether you’re casting a line, exploring a riverside trail, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, you can help protect these special places now, and for generations to come.
By becoming a Ribble Rivers Trust supporter for just £3 a month, you’ll be funding real, on-the-ground action.
Ready to make a difference? Learn more here: ribbletrust.org.uk/become-a-supporter
