10 Simple Ways To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint as a Student

If you live off campus, leave your car at home and walk or bike (if it's safe) to your classes instead. Walking not only helps to reduce your carbon footprint: it is a great way to improve your health and explore your new home.

If your apartment or dorm room floor is cold, you're more likely to feel cold and turn up the heat. To avoid this, put a big, cozy rug on the floor — it'll insulate your living space and help keep your feet warm.

Keep the cold at bay with a nice, warm (and eco-friendly) comforter! You'll be able to keep the thermostat lower — and you might just sleep better, too!

Did you know laptops use up to 90% less energy than desktop computers? If you've been using a desktop computer, consider making the switch.  

Instead of buying plastic water bottles or plastic water jugs, buy a quality insulated tumbler or mug and refill it with water, tea, or your favorite soup from the dining hall. You can also bring reusable utensils so you won't have to use disposable cutlery and straws. If you're ready for more, check out our tips on zero-waste living.

Fruits and vegetables are loaded with essential nutrients that help us feel our best. And they typically have a much lower environmental impact than meat, dairy, and processed foods. Incorporating more plant foods is a major step towards having a sustainable diet — and you just might find that you feel better, too!

Do you really need that new bulletin board, or will last year's do? How about that extra pair of sunglasses? When you're tempted to make a purchase, think carefully: is the item something you'll use for a long time, or dispose of at the end of the school year? Check out our tips on sustainable living to discover more ways to live a sustainable life.

We get it, you want to stay on trend and within your budget. But fast fashion comes at a high cost for the planet, including significant waste, heavy pesticide use, and a high shipping footprint. A much better option is to buy from sustainable brands or hit your local thrift store for quality, gently-used pieces that will help you look good and make a statement!

Reducing your meat consumption is a simple and impactful way to reduce your carbon footprint. And what better place to do it than a college campus, where you have access to a variety of flavors from all around the world, every day? Try eating a few vegetarian meals a week to figure what you do and don't like.

Planting trees is a great way to connect with the environment and make a difference You can do this by planting trees with a local environmental organization, or by leaving the planting up to us!