We do not inherit the world from our fathers, but we borrow it from our children, says an ancient proverb of Native Americans. Never as today, these words are full of meaning. The planet suffers because man exploits his resources excessively, without thinking too much, as if the world were his exclusive property. If we all put some simple intentions on the list of ideas for New Year's Eve we could do a lot for this world that is not ours, it is - in fact - only on loan.

For New Year's Eve give us a different point of view, a new way to make choices and purchases, from the table to the furniture; many ideas for a more ecological lifestyle.

Good intentions and ideas for the New Year

Here are some simple gestures that, included in the list of ideas for New Year, will help us to respect the planet.

• Housekeeping . For the hygiene in the kitchen and in the rest of the house it is not necessary to use so many detergents; most surfaces can be cleaned with vinegar and bicarbonate; for the rest there are detergents on tap . Even for personal hygiene the choice of natural products will save a lot in terms of resource exploitation.
• Energy . Energy is not an infinite resource. Washing machine and dishwasher should only be started at full load, preferably in the evening. Do you still have old light bulbs at home? Give yourself the maximum time to replace the New Year deadline. Even if you only have energy saving light bulbs, never keep them turned on for more than a minute.
• Waste . Differentiating as much as possible is the least we can do. However, we should also learn to produce less waste; here are some ideas to succeed: using plastic products can limit plastic waste; buying fruit, vegetables and other loose foods avoids taking giant jars to throw away; the paper can be used to light the fire; disused clothes for children can be exchanged; many objects can be reused and transformed: don't you have ideas on how to recycle that old and worn jeans that you are about to throw away? Turn it into a fun beach bag.
• Furniture . Have you decided to furnish part of your home again? Take a better look around: you will certainly come up with some ideas to transform or repaint that old piece of furniture that you no longer like.
• Movements . Are you really sure that to get to the place you are going to need to take the car? Walking is good for the environment and health.

Ideas for a more eco-friendly diet

With a view to a more ecological year, the power deserves a separate paragraph. In fact, small daily choices can make the difference.

• The expense . Rewarding companies that use recyclable packaging with the right dimensions; do not buy products in packages that are too large compared to the contents. Buy preferably seasonal fruits and vegetables and local products, preferably from organic farming. Consume less meat and less fish and, in general, less food of animal origin. Starting right from New Year's Eve dinner: do you already have ideas for a menu with minimal impact? You could try this vegetarian New Year's menu .
• In the kitchen . Only cook as much as necessary and, if something is left over, rework. Any ideas? For example, if a pugnetto of rice with parmesan cheese is left, you can make arancini; if they make spinach, broccoli or other vegetables, they can be turned into a savory pie; Did you get so much chocolate and nougat this Christmas? Here is the perfect idea for the New Year's cake: a nice semifreddo with these ingredients.
• The table . No to disposable plates, glasses, cutlery and tablecloths. Let's start with the New Year's Eve dinner? If we really can't do less than disposable tableware, it's better to choose the biodegradable ones.