Many college students find living on or off campus as part of the college experience. Student-tenants benefit living away from their families, they gain a sense of independence, financial management strategies and an opportunity to pick a lifestyle of their own. Nowadays, many students have turned to the eco-friendly lifestyle and prefer environmentally-friendly products. This only proves that students have an environmental conscience and are aware of their social responsibility.
Here are a few ways to up your eco-friendly apartment life:
Conserve electricity
Every bit of it. You can start by knowing when to switch off appliances or using the self-timer feature of your television and air conditioner. Cut down electricity usage by switching off lights you do not need. There are many ways to practice conservation of energy. With this, you are reducing your carbon footprint and saving more money. For lights you use frequently, opt for LED bulbs. You will pay more money up front for them, but you’ll quickly see the savings in your electric bill over time.
Eco-friendly technology
When you have the opportunity to make a switch to more energy efficient products, do so. It is much like paying forward to the environment. Solar-powered lights, radio and calculators help you save money and reduce your energy output. You can also buy rechargeable batteries, which will save you money in the long run.
Don’t waste food
Not only is this waste of money but also a waste of landfill space. You can do composting if food waste is really unavoidable. Reduce your food waste by smart shopping. Buy less than enough perishables that you will be able to eat. Sometimes, less is more than enough.
Recycle
As a student, there are many ways to practice recycling. Separate recyclable and non-recyclable materials. Reuse your shopping bags. You can also buy recycled paper and reuse by printing on both sides.
Try to fix stuff before ditching it
Throwing things away should be your last option! If you have a broken lamp, furniture or kitchenware, try to see if it can still be repaired. The internet can be your guide in practically fixing anything as there are tutorial videos for each household item, you just have to find it. Or, if it’s not broken but it’s not suiting you and your needs anymore, see if you can give it to a friend or selling it online. Remember, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure!
Skip the plastic
On your next trip to the grocery store, don’t forget to bring a canvas reusable bag with you. Avoid single-use plastic bags or buying bottled water. Opt for an insulated water bottle instead. At your favorite coffee shop, give the barista your reusable mug. There are so many ways to cut down plastic usage. Many cities and counties have banned plastic bags from stores altogether. And if you forget your reusable bags, you’ll be charged for a paper bag.
Visit your local sustainable retail store
This can be an eye-opener for you if you’ve never done this before. In a sustainable store, you are required to bring your own reusable canisters and canvas bags to put in your coffee, sugar, rice and other grocery items that are not in their usual plastic packaging. Items might cost a little more, but produce and products here are mostly non-GMO and organic so you can feel extra good about what you’re consuming.
Make earth-friendly decisions
The next time you are asked to jot down notes, use your laptop or your smartphone instead of paper. Try riding your bike or walking to classes instead of driving your car. Or if you must drive, try to carpool with a friend!
