Green Living: A Sustainability Guide for College Students

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Reviewed by Benjamin Fultz


As you begin your college journey, it is important to prioritize a sustainable and environmentally friendly campus experience. This guide is designed to inspire and educate you on the ways you can incorporate green practices into your daily life as a student.

From choosing sustainable transportation options to embracing eco-friendly fashion, this guide covers everything you need to know about living green at college.

Guide to Sustainable Living

As you read the following sections, imagine that you are receiving advice from a mentor who understands the value of sustainability. The goal is not to look down on those who may not prioritize environmentalism in the same way as you do, but rather to share insight and practical tips that can help you live sustainably. Each section is designed to offer you a comprehensive understanding of different aspects of sustainability, backed by resources that will deepen your knowledge and engagement.

Toward a Greener Future

Pursuing sustainability on campus is more than just an individual endeavor; it's a collective journey that contributes to a larger movement toward environmental stewardship. By adopting sustainable practices, not only are you enhancing the quality of your own life, but you are also contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.

Let this guide be your starting point to explore how small, mindful actions can have a large impact. Together, we can cultivate a culture of responsibility and care for our environment, starting with our campuses.

 

Sustainable Transportation


As a college student, your journey to and around campus can significantly impact your environmental footprint. Embracing sustainable transportation methods reduces carbon emissions and fosters a healthier, more vibrant campus life.

This section explores various eco-friendly transportation options available, offering practical advice on making greener choices that benefit both the planet and your well-being.

Using Green Transportation

  • Biking: Biking is a zero-emission method of transportation that improves fitness. Many campuses offer bike-sharing programs and dedicated lanes for safe cycling.

  • Public Transit: Riding buses or trains can significantly cut down on personal vehicle emissions. Look for student discounts on transit passes offered by many colleges.

  • Carpooling and Ride-Sharing: Sharing rides reduces the number of vehicles on the road, decreasing both pollution and traffic. Apps and campus bulletin boards can help you find carpool buddies.

  • Walking: For those living on or near campus, walking is the most environmentally friendly way to travel. It's completely carbon-neutral and offers the added benefit of exercise.

Keep Moving

  • MobilizeU: a suite of resources and toolkits to empower students to lead environmental change efforts on campus, from organizing Earth Day events to advocating for sustainable dining

  • PublicTransportation.org: information on the benefits of public transit and tips for navigating these systems effectively

Impact of Sustainable Transportation

Choosing sustainable transportation options is a powerful step toward reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener campus. As we explore ways to minimize waste and promote recycling in the next section, remember that every choice, no matter how small, creates ripples of positive change across your campus and community.

Reducing Waste and Promoting Recycling


The concept of reducing waste and embracing recycling practices is central to sustainable campus living. By adopting a mindful approach to consumption and waste, students can play a crucial role in minimizing their environmental impact.

This section offers guidance on how to implement waste reduction strategies and enhance recycling efforts, making it easier for you to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable campus.

Strategies for Minimizing Waste

  • Embrace Reusables: Swap single-use items for reusable alternatives. Think water bottles, coffee cups, shopping bags, and food containers.

  • Understand Recycling: Familiarize yourself with your campus's recycling program. Knowing what can be recycled and where ensures less waste ends up in landfills.

  • Reduce Paper Use: Opt for digital notes and materials when possible. If you need to print, use both sides of the paper.

  • Support Campus Composting: If your campus has a composting program, participate by disposing of compostable waste properly. It's a simple act that significantly reduces methane emissions from landfills.

Keep Reducing and Recycling

Responsible Living

Adopting waste reduction and recycling habits does more than contribute to a sustainable campus; it also establishes a foundation for responsible living beyond college. As we turn our attention to conserving energy in the next chapter, remember that each step toward sustainability, including minimizing waste, plays a vital role in protecting our planet for future generations.

Energy Conservation Efforts


Energy consumption is a major contributor to a campus's environmental footprint, but it also presents a significant opportunity for conservation. Through mindful behaviors and the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, students can play a pivotal role in reducing their school's energy use.

This section explores practical measures you can take to conserve energy in dorms, classrooms, and across campus, highlighting how small changes can lead to substantial environmental benefits.

Energy-Saving Solutions

  • Switch to LED Lighting: Talk to your college’s housing department about swapping out incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs in your living spaces for longer-lasting, energy-efficient lighting.

  • Unplug Electronics: Devices that are plugged in continue to use power, even when they're off. Unplugging electronics when not in use can cut down on "vampire" energy waste.

  • Utilize Power Strips: Power strips make it easier to turn off multiple devices at once, preventing unnecessary energy consumption.

  • Advocate for Energy Efficiency: Participate in or start initiatives encouraging campus administration to invest in energy-efficient appliances and systems for dorms and campus buildings.

Keep Saving Energy

  • Energy Star: resources and tips on how colleges and universities can promote energy efficiency and conservation

  • Energy Saver: comprehensive information on saving energy and using renewable energy technologies at home

Creating a Culture of Sustainability

Embracing energy conservation is not only beneficial for the environment, but it also cultivates a culture of sustainability on campus. As we shift our focus to eco-friendly eating habits in the next section, remember that the choices we make, from the food we eat to the energy we consume, all contribute to sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Eating Habits


Adopting eco-friendly eating habits is a powerful way for students to protect the environment and their own health.

The following section encourages a thoughtful approach to what you eat, where it comes from, and how it affects the planet. By focusing on local, seasonal, and minimally processed foods, students can contribute to a sustainable food system and enjoy meals that are good for them and for the Earth.

Strategies for Sustainable Dining

  • Choose Local and Seasonal Foods: Support campus dining services that source produce from local farms. Seasonal eating reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.

  • Minimize Food Waste: Plan your meals and be mindful of portion sizes to avoid waste. Participate in and advocate for campus programs that donate uneaten food to local shelters.

  • Get Involved in Campus Gardening: Join or support campus community gardens. They're a great source of fresh produce and an opportunity to learn about sustainable agriculture practices.

  • Learn From Expert Sources: Read about sustainable eating practices from great writers such as Wendell Berry, who is a leading voice on the practice of responsible eating.

Keep Eating Sustainably

 

Bonus Resource:

Positively Impact Your Health and the Planet

Making conscious choices about our eating habits can significantly impact our health and the health of our planet. As we continue exploring how you can participate in making your campus more sustainable, remember that every meal is an opportunity to make a difference. Sustainable eating is not just about what we avoid, but also about what we choose to support, such as local farms, healthy meals, and waste reduction initiatives.

Getting Involved in Campus Sustainability Initiatives


In addition to personal habits and choices, there are more opportunities on college campuses for you to contribute your voice and energy. Getting involved in environmental programs or starting new sustainability projects can enhance your college experience and contribute to lasting change.

This chapter outlines ways to engage with and promote sustainability initiatives, encouraging you to take an active role on your campus.

Ways to Participate

  • Join Environmental Clubs and Organizations: Connect with groups focused on sustainability issues. These organizations often spearhead projects like campus clean-ups, awareness campaigns, and lobbying for institutional green policies.

  • Volunteer for Sustainability Events: Look for opportunities to help with events, such as Earth Day celebrations, sustainability fairs, or local environmental efforts, that align with your campus's green initiatives.

  • Advocate for Sustainable Campus Policies: Work with student government and campus administration to advocate for policies that promote sustainability, such as reducing energy consumption, increasing recycling, and offering more locally-sourced dining options.

  • Lead by Example: Start a sustainability project or initiative that addresses a need on your campus. Whether it's a bike-sharing program, a community garden, or a zero-waste campaign, leading by example can inspire others to take action.

Keep Participating

Ripple Effects

Engaging in sustainability initiatives allows you to be part of something bigger than yourself, creating a ripple effect that can transform your campus and inspire change in your community and beyond.

As you become more engaged in sustainability initiatives and contribute to a greener campus, remember that your journey doesn't stop here. Next, we'll dive into how sustainable fashion choices can further reflect your commitment to the environment, integrating sustainability into all aspects of your life.

Sustainable Fashion

In the journey toward a sustainable campus life, the clothes we wear play a significant role. Sustainable fashion isn't just about personal style; it's a statement of your commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical consumerism.

This section discusses how students can make eco-conscious fashion choices that benefit the planet, encourage a culture of sustainability, and set positive trends.

Green Wardrobes

  • Thrift Shopping: Explore local thrift stores or online marketplaces for unique and affordable finds. These can add character to your wardrobe without damaging the planet. Opting for second-hand clothing not only saves money, but it also significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with making new clothes.

  • Clothing Swaps: Organize or participate in clothing swap events on your campus. These events are a fun way to declutter your closet, refresh your wardrobe, and prevent perfectly good clothes from ending up in landfills, all while fostering a sense of community among students.

  • Supporting Sustainable Brands: When purchasing new items, prioritize brands committed to sustainable practices. This includes the use of eco-friendly materials, ethical labor practices, and minimal packaging. Research and support companies that align with your values of sustainability and social responsibility.

  • DIY and Upcycling: Get creative with DIY projects to breathe new life into old or damaged clothing. Upcycling reduces waste while also allowing you to express your unique style and creativity. Workshops or clubs on campus can provide space and resources for these projects.

Keep Dressing The Part

  • Good On You: a comprehensive guide to ethically and environmentally-rated fashion brands, helping you make informed choices

  • The Thrift Shopper: a national directory of thrift stores, making it easier to find second-hand shops near you

Fashion hat Makes the World a Better Place

By adopting sustainable fashion practices, you can actively contribute to a movement that challenges the fashion industry to be more responsible. As we consider how our passion for sustainability intersects with our careers, remember that every choice to wear eco-friendly and ethically sourced clothing is a step toward a more sustainable world.

Careers in Environmentalism and Sustainability


For students committed to green campus living, pursuing a career in environmentalism or sustainability offers a path to make a meaningful impact.

This section explores the wide range of careers in this field, helping you leverage your education and campus experiences into a fulfilling career centered around sustainability.

Pathway to Green Careers

  • Identify Your Interests: Sustainability encompasses a wide range of disciplines. Determine whether your passion lies in renewable energy, conservation, environmental policy, sustainable agriculture, or another area.

  • Seek Relevant Education and Skills: Explore academic programs, courses, and extracurricular activities that align with your career interests. Gaining knowledge and skills in areas like environmental science, policy analysis, or green technology can be crucial.

  • Gain Experience: Internships, volunteer work, and involvement in campus sustainability initiatives can provide hands-on experience and enhance your resume.

  • Network with Professionals: Connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals working in sustainability roles. Attend career fairs, sustainability conferences, and workshops to expand your network.

Keep Following Your Passion

  • Green Jobs Network: This network shares job postings for environmental and sustainability careers across various sectors.

  • Campus Ecology - National Wildlife Federation: For students who are interested in a career in environmental science or other green initiatives and are eager to increase their involvement on campus, this resource shares leadership opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

Healthier Planet, Happier Life

Embracing a career in environmentalism and sustainability allows you to contribute to a healthier planet while pursuing work that aligns with your values. The skills and experiences you've cultivated through your journey of green campus living can serve as a foundation for a rewarding career in this ever-growing field. As we conclude this guide, remember that the path to sustainability doesn't end with graduation—it's a lifelong journey of learning, advocating, and making a difference.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on living green on campus, it's important to remember the key lessons we’ve learned. From reducing waste to embracing eco-friendly eating habits, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make environmentally responsible choices in your daily life.

Sustainability is more than a series of actions; it's a mindset that values the health of our planet and recognizes the impact of our choices on the environment and future generations. By adopting sustainable practices, you can contribute to a greener campus and set the foundation for a lifetime of environmental stewardship. Whether this means that you begin a career as a conservationist or simply engage in more eco-friendly practices in your daily life, the sustainability habits you learned in college will remain with you.

Continuous Journey of Growth and Learning

Remember, the path to sustainability is a journey marked by growth, learning, and adaptation. There will always be new opportunities to deepen your commitment to the environment, whether it’s through personal choices, academic pursuits, or community activism.

Doing what is best for the planet isn’t always as simple as watching the news or listening to the opinions of your peers. After all, environmentalism is often polluted by politics and ideas that are not aligned with sustainability. Learn to perform independent research and think critically for yourself to identify the environmental events that are most pressing and most relatable to you.

Once you identify the environmental efforts that you believe require immediate action, step up and take action. Whether you are aware of it or not, the habits and values you cultivate during your college years have the potential to inspire others and effect meaningful change well into the future.

Looking Forward

Let this guide serve as a starting point, not an endpoint, in your quest for a sustainable lifestyle. Continue to seek out accurate information, challenge yourself to adopt greener habits, and engage in sustainability initiatives, both on campus and in the broader community. Your actions, no matter how small they may seem, contribute toward a more sustainable and equitable world.

References for Further Reading

Below you can find all the resources mentioned throughout this article, helping you further explore sustainable living on campus. We encourage you to share this guide with friends, professors, and university staff as you advocate for a greener, more eco-conscious campus community.

 

Together, through education and action, we can protect our environment and pave the way for a sustainable future.

 

MobilizeU: https://www.earthday.org/mobilizeu-resources


Public Transportation: https://www.publictransportation.org


Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/recycle


RecycleNow: https://www.recyclenow.com


Energy Star: https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/resources-audience/colleges-universities


Energy Saver: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-saver


Local Harvest: https://www.localharvest.org


EPA - Sustainable Management of Food: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food


Wendell Berry: The Pleasures of Eating: https://www.ecoliteracy.org/article/wendell-berry-pleasures-eating


Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE): https://www.aashe.org


EcoLeaders by National Wildlife Federation: https://www.nwfecoleaders.org


Good On You: https://www.goodonyou.eco


The Thrift Shopper: http://www.thethriftshopper.com


Green Jobs Network: https://greenjobs.net


Campus Ecology - National Wildlife Federation: https://www.nwf.org/Campus-Ecology