As I wrote last year, I like to set new year’s resolutions for myself that will help me, and my facility, be "greener". I did a good job of meeting last year's goals by using biodegradable cleaning products, buying and cooking local foods, telecommuting and using public transportation, and recycling. Here are some of the goals we can all work on in 2012! Happy New Year!

Stop buying water bottles. And stop taking the "free" ones from hotels and at friends' homes. Follow through this year and eliminate disposable plastic water bottles from your home and workplace. Here are some reasons why you should ditch that bottle.

Step up the recycling. Hopefully by now you are recycling all aluminum, glass, and paper. But in 2012, go further and recycle old clothing by donating it to a local shelter, and recycle your food scraps by composting.

Share more, buy less. Make 2012 the year in which you shop more at thrift stores and garage sales to get high quality, pre-owned items. Talk to your friends and neighbor about swapping books, gardening equipment, children's clothing and furniture, and other durable items.

Get outside! We spend so much time in the electronic world, it's easy to forget the natural world. Take your dog for a walk, teach your children an outdoor activity, or make some camping reservations at your local state park. Disconnecting for a few hours does wonders, and saves on electricity.

What are your 2012 new year's green resolutions? Did you accomplish your 2011 goals?