When I heard that getting healthy is the most popular resolution for the New Year, I thought of something Who’s Keeping Hawaii Green award-winner Krista Ruchaber, of Styrophobia, told me not too long ago: “We’re only as healthy as our environment.”
So if you’re thinking of making healthy resolutions this year, don’t forget to make them green, too—it’s easier than you think. Here are five resolutions worth keeping for the health of your body, your home and the planet.

1. Avoid packaging and processing. Fresh is best! The healthiest foods come with little or no packaging. So next time you’re at the market, choose whole, locally grown avocados over premade guacamole or fresh, grass-fed beef over frozen burger patties.

2. Bring lunch. Making meals at home is a great reminder of where your food comes from. Prepare lunch from fresh, local foods and pack it in reusable containers. You’ll save money and calories and prevent takeout trash from ending up in the landfill.

3. Exercise outdoors. Have you ever thought about how much energy it takes to power rows of cardio machines at the gym? Save some electricity while increasing your own energy by taking your workout outside.

Photo by iStock.com

4. Ditch the disposable bottle. Drinking plenty of water is a great habit. Having loads of empty plastic bottles? Not so much. Hawaii has some of the best drinking water in the country. Refill a reusable water bottle with tap or filtered water and drink to your health.

5. Clean house, naturally. Improve the air quality in your home (and your lungs!) by using only natural cleaning products. Make your own concoctions or check stores for the latest natural cleaning products—there are more options now than ever. A few of my favorite brands, available locally, include Method, Seventh Generation and Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day.