Going Green in 2012: 12 steps for third world

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA: Many of us are thinking about the changes we want to make this year. For some, these changes will be financial; for others, physical or spiritual. But for all of us, there are important resolutions we can make to "green" our lives.

Although this is often a subject focused on by industrialized nations, people in developing countries can also take important steps to reduce their growing environmental impact.

"We in the developing world must embark on a more vigorous 'going green' program," says Sue Edwards, director of the Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD). "As incomes rise and urbanization increases, a growing middle class must work with city planners to ensure our communities are sustainable."

Broadening sustainability efforts is essential to solving many of the world's challenges, including food production, security, and poverty. The United Nations has designated 2012 as the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All.

"With so many hungry and poor in the world, addressing these issues is critical," says Danielle Nierenberg, director of the Worldwatch Institute's Nourishing the Planet project. "Fortunately, the solutions to these problems can come from simple innovations and practices."

Hunger, poverty, and climate change are issues that we in the developing world can help address. Here are 12 simple steps to go green in 2012:

Recycle waste

Reduce fossil fuel consumption

Make the switch

Re-use water bottles

Conserve water

Turn down the AC

Support food recovery

Buy local, indigenous crops

Plant a tree

Plant a garden

Compost organic waste

Eat meat that is raised right...and eat less of it

The most successful and lasting new year changes are those that are practiced regularly and have an important goal. As we embark on this new year, let's all resolve to make 2012 a healthier, happier, and greener year for all.