When it comes to staying green as a college student, the idea can be a little bit daunting. Living in the dorms can make things more complicated, when suddenly every space is a “communal space” and there is not a lot of room for you to practice your own personal sustainable habits. Even off campus, living with roommates can throw a wrench in things. Everyone has a different level of education and experience when it comes to green living, and trying to educate yourself along with the people you live with can be a tall order. Money can often be a huge factor for students as well. Many college students struggle with finances for a multitude of different reasons. Having a tight budget can sometimes make staying green seem impossible.
Despite all of these obstacles that may stand in your way, finding ways to stay green as a college student can be both simple and easy on your wallet. One of the easiest things to do is to recycle. Figuring out what is and is not recyclable can be confusing, so do your research on how to dispose of all of your waste the proper way. Make sure you are keeping your roommates informed, too. The Waste Management website, www.wm.com, has a Recycling 101 page with rules, tips and tricks, and common misconceptions about recycling. The UWW Sustainability Office also has graphics on their Instagram page, @uwwsustainability, about the proper way to recycle.
Another easy thing that everyone can do is conserve energy and water whenever possible. Turn off the lights when you leave a room, unplug your chargers when you are not using them, and turn down your thermostat if you are able to. Turn off the water when you are not actively using it during a shower or to brush your teeth. Do your laundry with cold water, and opt for the dishwasher instead of handwashing dishes when you can.
A great way to go green without going broke is to be a more conscious consumer. Buy used textbooks, furniture, and clothes to reduce waste, promote sustainable shopping habits, and save yourself some money. Instead of buying something new from somewhere like Amazon or Shein for a costume or a party that you are only going to use once, borrow something similar from a friend, thrift it, or even make it yourself. This can go the opposite way as well. Have something you want to get rid of that is still in usable condition? Put it on the curb or donate it. Have a friend who needs something for the concert they are going to next month? Go through your closet or hit the thrift store together to find something secondhand.
While the broad idea of ‘Going Green’ can seem scary as a college student with so much on your plate already, there are little things that everyone can do to make a positive impact on our environment. Adjusting your habits, even just slightly, and shifting your outlook can make all the difference.
(Halle )