Living a more sustainable and eco-friendly life is not as hard as it might sound. A little effort goes a long way, and even small steps can make a difference. Students are a part of the generation that takes environmental concerns seriously, and it is great.
That’s why it is important to make some changes that will reduce one’s carbon footprint. And in many cases, it will also allow saving some money, which is always good for college learners. Some students might say that they do not have much free time for in-depth research and constant activism. It is understandable, as they already have a lot going on – college curriculum, part-time job, and social life.
It is often difficult to find time for anything when you are constantly spending nights on written assignments and books. Higher education is notorious for the number of papers one needs to write. And it is completely normal to require help sometimes. Luckily, students have a paper writing service, WritePaper.com that can come to the rescue at any moment. It is a professional academic platform that assists with writing, editing, and proofreading college papers.
One can get instant help from experienced writers, and rest assured that the essay or term paper will be ready by the deadline. And in the meantime, you can check out these tips on how to reduce your impact on the environment with little effort.
Why Care About Carbon Footprint?
Carbon footprint is the term that refers to the impact a particular activity or product has on the environment and climate change. Greenhouse emissions are directly linked to global warming. It means that the higher the carbon footprint is, the faster the planet is warming up.
Everything that people do contributes to climate change, which negatively affects wildlife and ecosystems.
By introducing even the smallest changes in your daily life and consumption habits, you can reduce your impact on that. And if everyone does the same, the actions will have a long-lasting good result. Here is where you can start.
source: https://unsplash.com/photos/NpNvI4ilT4A
Eliminate Single-Use Plastic
Everyone knows that plastic waste is a huge problem. Try to cut down on single-use plastic in your life as much as possible. To make the transition smoother, take one step at a time.
For example:
- Stop buying beverages in one-use plastic bottles – buy one reusable instead and take it with you;
- Do not use plastic straws; there are paper or metal options out there. And, to be honest, a lot of drinks can be consumed without straws at all;
- Try not to buy items with a lot of plastic packaging;
- Bring your cloth/tote bag or backpack for groceries;
- Buy one reusable coffee cup for taking the coffee on the go.
It is challenging to cut down single-use plastic completely, but even the tiniest changes can make a difference.
Reconsider Transportation
Another huge contributor to greenhouse emissions is transportation. The most polluting are planes, and cars follow closely behind. Trains are better in this regard than cars and buses. But the best option for short distances is a bicycle.
Consider biking instead of driving a car, which is more environmentally friendly and cheap. It is also a great substitute for daily exercises. So it is a total win.
If cycling is not an option, consider taking public transport instead of a personal one.
Another important tip here is to buy local. Local products do not have to be transported long distances. It means less shipment and fewer emissions. Also, it supports the local economy and small businesses.
Responsible Fashion
Another major contributor to the carbon footprint is fast fashion. Yes, it offers affordable things, but they are usually low quality and produce unethically.
What are the options? You can:
- Turn to thrifting – it is affordable, sustainable, and can bring unique pieces;
- Rent out expensive garments for events like weddings instead of buying;
- Alter your old clothes;
- Swipe pieces with friends or relatives;
- Invest in classic garments of high quality that will serve you for a long time;
- Be careful with clothes, so they are not damaged too soon.
Also, when you want to throw something out, consider selling it or donating to those in need instead. The fewer things end up on the landfill, the better it is.
Reduce Meat Consumption
Try to reduce the amount of meat you consume. This might seem weird or hard at first, but give it just a day. Resolve to avoid meat for one day in a week and you’ll already be making a gigantic step in the direction of reducing your carbon footprint.
You can also read on how reducing red meat in your diet is also good for your health. One more gain for you!
Be Mindful of Electricity Consumption
You can reduce your footprint by implementing several simple habits. These are:
- Turn off the gadgets when you do not use them, do not leave them plugged when they are already charged;
- Turn the light off when you are not in the room;
- Use energy-efficient tools and light bulbs;
- Adjust your heating and thermostat;
- Minimize the plug load;
- Air-dry the laundry when possible (it is also good for the clothes);
- Use cold water in the washing machine.
The simple rule is to turn off and unplug anything you do not need now.
Recycle
First of all, look into the sustainability programs available on campus. Maybe there are initiatives you can join. Or you can recycle your waste yourself. Find the places where you can turn your paper waste, plastic waste, or broken appliances.
Try to avoid single-use products.
Use Less Paper
When possible, do not use paper. Surely, there are some things you’ll need to print anyway. But there is also other stuff you can eliminate.
For example, take notes digitally via laptop or tablet. Print on both sides if it is something for personal use. Change paper agendas to a useful app on your phone. It is much more convenient, and you can set notifications as well.
Try Minimalism
Surely, the question of style is in the terrain of personal preferences. However, trying some new things can be exciting. Consider a minimalist lifestyle. It means having essentials that serve you for a long time instead of filling space with random things.
Choose what is necessary and avoid anything that is of no use. If you want to get rid of old things, sell them or give them away to others.
Join Sustainability Classes and Events
One of the best ways to start a movement is by raising awareness. And in college, you have every opportunity to communicate with like-minded people. And doing something together is always easier and more fun. Join a club, group, or a class devoted to sustainable living and practices.
Together you can start initiatives and share information as well as valuable insights.
In Summary
Starting anything new can feel difficult. But introducing small changes one by one is not so intimidating. But making little alterations in the ways you shop, travel, and eat can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Remember that even if you are doing the bare minimum, it is better than doing nothing.
Find people who share the same interest and be more couscous of your consumer habits.