New Year’s Resolution Check-in: Still going strong on that resolution to get fit and healthy? Here are some tips to improve your physical fitness, while also reducing your carbon footprint:

— Exercise outside: Instead of increasing your energy consumption via home and gym exercise machines, head outdoors to take advantage of hiking and biking trails in your area.

— Carpool: Not only does carpooling cut down on your fuel costs and usage, but having a gym buddy is an instant incentive to keep up with your fitness goals and resolutions.

— Ditch the single-use water bottles: Choosing refillable over one-time use plastic bottles means less waste in landfills and saves you money in the process.

— Purchase eco-friendly clothes and second-hand equipment: Organic cotton and bamboo threads are a great place to start for sweat-friendly green fabrics. For eco-conscious equipment choices, check the web or a local sporting goods shop for great deals on second-hand bikes and weights.

— Recycle your sneakers: Instead of throwing away shoes and other equipment, research recycling and donation programs to help those in need. There are several companies that will recycle your old sneakers and put them to good use!

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Camping with your pet: In 2021, there are more campsites that will permit families who camp with their pets. According to DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, “Knowing many of our campers like to plan their stays well in advance, we’re getting the word out early that almost 50 new sites at six state parks will be ‘pet friendly’ next year.”

Dunn noted that both pet camping and dogs in cabins programs are expanding slowly “and cautiously” while officials in those parks monitor pet owner compliance and the reception from other campers. For the 2021 camping season, a total of 46 new pet-friendly campsites have been added.

Since its inception as a pilot program in 2001, with nine state parks participating, “Pet Camping” has expanded to include 56 of Pennsylvania’s 121 state parks.