How to be Eco-Friendly in College
As college students, we have a lot on our plates: homework, exams, projects, clubs, work and the list goes on. We’re pretty much constantly thinking about what we have to do next, and we rarely think about much outside of our daily routines. One thing we should start thinking about though, is incorporating some small, eco-friendly hacks into our lives to make life better for ourselves and the environment. Here are our simple tips on how to stay eco-friendly while managing your way through college!
Tip #1: Mason Jars
Mason jars can and will be your best friends if you give them a chance. Not only do they look aesthetically pleasing in any setting, but they are also an eco-friendly way to store almost any kind of food. Foods like granola, cereal, pasta, rice, nuts, pretzels and so much more can be stored and kept fresh in these containers. You can keep reusing these jars and store whatever you want in them.
Tip #2: Reusable Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles come in so many different shapes and sizes and some are now even incorporating technology into the bottles themselves. Check out this smart reusable water bottle from Urban Outfitters, for example. These are pretty self explanatory, but the bottom line is, if you own one of these bad boys then you are less likely to be using plastic bottles, which is a plus for everyone.
Tip #3: Reusable Shopping Bags
Like reusable water bottles, reusable shopping bags are also starting to become more popular. For those of you who don’t have any: get some! They’re cheap, and like the reusable water bottles, you can get them with some cool designs if you wish. Grocery stores will normally have them for sale near the check out lines, or you can always order one or two off of Amazon. Just throw them in the back of your trunk and you’ll always have them with you whenever you shop!
Tip #4: Alternative Straws
It’s the last straw. No, really. We’re sure by now you have heard of the anti-straw movement in support for sea turtles, the environment and other wildlife. And for good reason—plastic straws do have quite a negative impact on wildlife and our planet, and states are now beginning to ban them from use. As a result, alternatives are being made in place of them. For those who enjoy using straws, there are many replacements being made. Metal straws are an easy replacement to the traditional plastic straw, and they’re easy to carry around with you. Glass straws are also becoming more popular—you can get some for just $1.50 each from CB2! Next time you grab a drink and are in need of a straw, just grab one of your own out of your bag! Problem solved. Plus, if you’re lucky you might be able to get one from Elon’s Office of Sustainability, as they will sometimes hand them out. Now both you and the sea turtles can live in peace!