College students are stereotypically considered to be the most politically and socially active group in society. Because they dedicate time and effort to pursuing knowledge and expanding their critical thinking skills, it’s no wonder they are likely to become aware of the world’s issues and challenges.
One of the biggest ones that we’re facing today is the environmental danger to our planet. From the waste issue to climate change, we are being increasingly alarmed about the harmful effects some of our actions have on Mother Earth.
So, is it possible to make your contribution to saving the planet as a college student? Absolutely! Here are some of the things you can start doing today to help the environment.
1. Ditch Single-Use Plastic
This is one of the main steps that you can take to take off some of the burden for the environment caused by plastics. Single-use utensils, plates, boxes and containers are all around us, especially if you’re a college student.
For students, many companies produce containers and bags that are meant to be used on-the-go and dispensed immediately. This is why you will find single-use plastics all over the place when you’re on campus.
While you’re in your home, you can replace single-use plastic products with their reusable equivalents. For example, you can avoid plastic utensils and drinking glasses and make sure you get “real” ones as soon as possible.
As for single-use plastic bags, you can either use the same one many times or opt for linen bags that you can use for years.
2. Try to Go Zero Waste
If you’re serious about saving the planet, you can try to participate in the zero waste movement. Basically, it’s a lifestyle that aims to first decrease the total amount of trash and waste that we produce in everyday life, and then reduce it to zero.
However, as soon as you start trying to practice it, you will see that it can be incredibly hard. Waste is often something that goes unnoticed in our households. When you start paying attention for the first time, you will see that it can be quite complicated to go without it.
Nowadays, it’s easier to follow the zero waste discipline because there are more products on the market that allow you to reduce your waste. You can purchase them to start with or begin by crafting your own.
3. Mind Your Transport
Transportation is considered to be one of the main contributors to climate change and carbon emissions. That’s why you can choose to use environment-friendly transportation means as a college student.
Of course, the best thing you can do is walk from point A to point B. However, this is not always appropriate if your classes are far away from where you live. There are also many situations where you will need to get to your destination much faster than by walking.
In these situations, riding a bike is perfect. The only minus side to biking is that it’s not appropriate for cold days. So, if you’re unable to walk or bike, use public transportation and try to avoid driving as much as possible.
4. Recycle and Reuse
Recycling is the cornerstone of caring for the environment through a daily habit. If you already don’t, you can set up a recycling system that will separate your waste according to different materials.
“We are also seeing a huge popularity increase of DIY, reusing and repurposing everyday objects. If you’re not sure how to start, there are numerous websites, blogs and forums where you can pick up interesting ideas for breathing new life into your old, used objects”, says Nellie Johnson, a DIY and recycling enthusiast and blogger.
Conclusion
No matter what anyone tells you, there is a lot that you can do to save the planet as a college student. From small steps like introducing changes to your daily routine to huge lifestyle changes, the sky’s the limit when it comes to your motivation and ambition to help the environmentalist movement.
If you want to spread the word and motivate many others to take action, you can also promote sustainable living on your college campus.
Cover image: Photo by Vadim Fomenok on Unsplash
