This time last year we were optimistic that we had seen the end of Covid-19 and normality was returning. There was a sense the economy would bounce back and although there had been early stories about Downing Street parties during lockdown restrictions we could not have known where it would all lead.

The New Year is usually a time to look fondly back and to consider the future but with the triple threat of war on our continent, an energy/ cost of living crisis and the very real impact of the climate emergency it’s a bit different.
I have been talking to residents throughout Mid Dorset and North Poole for months and asking how they feel about climate change. Most say that they do not feel the Government is doing enough, and some shared their lifestyle changes to consider the environment. Too many, though, say they have not done anything beyond recycling and some suggested that acting was pointless when more polluting nations have not committed to net zero by 2050.

The bizarre decision to develop a coal (coke) mine in Cumbria has further complicated the picture. The suggestion that it wasn’t a problem because the fossil fuel would be exported elsewhere is not only irresponsible but incredibly bad business. As the former Lib Dem leader and Cumbrian MP said ‘its like investing in a Betamax factory’ – something only those of you as old as me would understand!

So, is it worth doing the right thing for the environment whilst the Government and other nations get the big things wrong? Of course it is. The word society comes from the Latin socius meaning ‘comrade or ally’ and suggests a way of living that considers other people.
While some of the bigger changes require capital investment, lots of the lifestyle and society changes which benefit the climate will also help the cost-of-living crisis. In fact, many hark back to a simpler day when our grandparents lived with less stuff and a ‘make do and mend’ attitude.
Food is a great example. As a child, we only had satsumas as a Christmas treat and strawberries in the summer and weekend walks would lead to us making blackberry and apple crumble in the autumn. I may be remembering with rose-coloured glasses, but I wonder if we appreciated the food more, through having to wait for the season. Reducing food miles, eating seasonally, and growing some of our own has a triple benefit – reducing the environmental impact, saving money, and improving wellbeing and mental health.

This seems simple, and I am not advocating giving up all the lovely food we have discovered from around the world. But as a New Year’s Resolution it’s perfect.
Whatever changes you make for 2023 don’t set yourself up to fail. Take small steps and once embedded in your life add another one and by this time next year your carbon footprint and your bills should have reduced and your connection with nature increased. Happy New Year!