Some of us become environmentally aware at a very young age. Others recognize the importance of green living later, often when they are in college. Fortunately, more and more students speak out for sustainability and analyze how their lifestyle affects the environment. The years you spend in your college dorm is a great time to develop your own sustainability system. Why? There will definitely be allies on your side who share your values and vision.
Do you want to make the world healthier and greener for future generations? Below, we explore how simple habits can help you with that.
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1. Minimize the Items You Buy
We live in an era of consumerism when stores are filled with attractive things. But in many cases, we don’t really need those goods. Therefore, the first rule is to buy less to reduce the waste you create. Stick to a minimalist lifestyle. As a result, you will limit the amount of items that someday will have to be thrown away.
It is also a great idea to buy second-hand items — be it books, vintage dishes, or interior details. If you won’t need them in a couple of years, then why buy something brand new? Plus, vintage looks cooler, and you’ll save some money.
Of course, finding quality second-hand items as a student may take time, but thanks to writing help, you can have enough of it. Students turn to english essay writer at essayhub when they want to focus on other activities and some personal matters without worrying about approaching deadlines. Of course, your grades will be safe since the writers are true professionals in their field. They know what your academic needs are. So, you will kill two birds with one stone: you will get high grades and still have the time to take care of your personal matters.
2. Get Reusable Containers
Many students have switched to reusable containers, which significantly reduces the use of plastic and paper utensils. Start by purchasing a coffee mug and water bottle.
Get a set of non-disposable dishes and cutlery — that’s how you will reduce the amount of waste. When it comes to food storage in the dorm, recyclable glass containers will come in handy.
By the way, bring your favorite mug to student gatherings or study sessions. And buy a small container to carry snacks such as nuts, pieces of chocolate, or fruit.
3. Turn Off the Lights
You can save a lot of electricity by turning the lights off in a room or hallway when there are no people there. Be the first to start this tradition. Plus, the sooner you develop this habit, the lower your utility bills will be in the future.
4. Go Green When Moving
The first thing many students do when moving is buy plastic containers or cardboard boxes. But it’s much better to go to your nearest grocery store or warehouse and ask if they can share some old boxes. The next step is to use paper tape, as it can be recycled. Another eco-friendly option is honeycomb paper wrap instead of plastic bubble wrap. Rely on it when packing fragile items.
5. Make the Most Out of Notebooks and Pens
Do you think that your notebook is running out, but in fact, there are still a lot of empty pages? Don’t rush to throw it away; it’s better to finish it completely. The same goes for pens: make sure there is absolutely no ink in them before throwing them away.
Or why not go paperless? If you say no to paper notepads, then congratulations. You are on your way to a green lifestyle. Use a laptop, phone, or tablet to save information about your studies and personal matters.
Next, if you have a tablet or e-reader, stop buying paper books. Imagine the number of textbooks that students buy every semester and how many books are then thrown away. You can avoid this by switching to e-books instead. As an extra benefit, they are also less expensive than physical copies, which is perfect for a student’s budget. And you won’t carry a heavy backpack full of books.
6. Get a Compost Bin
If there are no compost bins on campus, then get one with other students and compost your leftovers together. Such bins are fairly affordable, easy to install, and provide a huge benefit to the environment.
Also, create a recycling area in your room and install an old bin or a cardboard box where you will throw away recyclable items.
7. Say No to Unnecessary Items
Were you given a flier, plastic keychain, or a T-shirt at a college fair or event? If you know that you will not use them in the future, then it is better to decline the offer politely.
Another way to say no to things you don’t need is to organize a garage sale to get rid of old items in a wise way. Grandma’s dinner set, denim jacket, record player, or vase may no longer serve you but be useful for someone else. As for the items that you can’t sell or donate, contact professional junk removal companies.
8. Be Inspirational
Student-led sustainability projects are on the rise. You can help promote global initiatives and show environmental responsibility by starting a recycling program in your dorm. It is a small but important step that will motivate other students to be more eco-friendly. Inspire them with your example and work together to lower your environmental impact.
And if someone asks you why you have a reusable set of containers, be prepared to give a clear answer. The better you convey the information, the more likely it is that other students will join you.
To Sum Up
The most reasonable way to be eco-friendly is to start simple. These eight tips are easy to incorporate into your daily routine, especially if you have like-minded friends who can support you on this journey. Conscious decisions made every day will influence the state of our planet. Make sustainable living fun, and over time, you will not be able to imagine your life without this conscious approach.