Written by Shristi N.
Environmental challenges are becoming increasingly pressing and the importance of sustainability is lost in translation. There are dire consequences such as climate change, pollution, and limited resources. As university students, but more importantly as humans, we can and should adopt practices to preserve the planet not only to reduce our environment footprint but for future generations.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Reduce
- Avoid single use items, buy items with minimal packaging or simply avoid packaging as a whole.
Reuse
- Ice cream containers, glass bottles and jars, egg cartons, as well as any bags (produce or shopping).
- Buy reusable cutlery set for lunch time, coffee cup, shopping bags, and water bottle. The options are endless. When I get takeaway, I reuse those containers by washing them.
Recycle
- Learn the recycling guidelines for your campus
- Did you know, cardboard boxes are only recyclable if they are no food stuck to them?
- I recycle bottles and cans through the ‘Return and Earn’ program to earn 10 cents per item!!
Reduce energy consumption
- Turn off lights and any appliances when not in use for less energy drain.
- Turn off the tap and/or use cold water in between steps of brushing your teeth or washing dishes to reduce energy and water.
- Take shorter and colder showers
- Wash clothes with cold water
- Hanging clothes instead of using the dryer
- Use LED bulbs for any lamps possible
- Try wearing appropriate clothing before turning on the heater
- Open blinds to use natural lighting and avoid artificial lighting
Sustainable Food Choices
- Try shopping at farmers’ markets or local grocery stores for produce
- Meal planning can save a lot of fast food chains and restaurants wastes
- You can use food scraps as compost if your living situation allows or if there is a composting facility nearby
- You can also reuse containers for meal planning such as ice cream containers, glass jars or buying reusable containers
Transportation
- Try walking, using public transport or a bike, and/or carpooling around town where possible.
- This reduces environmental impact while being cost-effective too.
It is an adjustment to start living a sustainable life. However, embracing sustainability is important for our wellbeing and the environment. Every small step counts!
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative
