Brought to you by the Sustainability Office and Mo' Money.
Whether you’re living at home, living off campus or living in residence, there are many ways you can be sustainable while you’re a college student. Living a sustainable lifestyle means creating less waste, adding small sustainable practices to your daily life and empowering others to adapt these practises into their own lifestyle. Keep reading to find out if there is something new that you could add to your routine!
- Unplug electronics when you’re not using them
Phantom load is a thing, and it adds to your hydro bill. It’s the electricity consumed by an electronic device while it is turned off or in standby mode. Coffee machines, toasters, hair dryers, phones, lap tops, iPads and any charging cords left plugged in will still draw electricity when they are plugged in even when they are not in use or are fully charged. - Take notes electronically
You’ll save money (and stop wasting paper) on purchasing notebooks and lined paper if you take notes on a phone, laptop or iPad. Keeping files organized, recalling them and sharing them can all be done easily when they are digital. - Be mindful of your water usage
We must conserve water to keep our limited supply of it pure and away from pollution. Taking shorter showers, combining small loads of laundry with family or roommates to make full loads and washing your clothing with cold water can make a difference and save you money. - Work on your green thumb
Adding a small plant in your room will help purify the air, add beauty and colour and it can boost your mood! Studies have shown that caring for house plants has been linked to improved mood and focus, reduced chance of sickness, and, generally just creates a better environment to be in. - Thrift shopping
Buying items second-hand helps reduce the amount of clothing that is thrown away and decreases the amount of clothing produced by manufacturing which is taxing on our environment. Selling clothing items that you don’t wear anymore can help to generate extra cash, and that’s always a good thing. Donating old clothes to local charities will also keep clothing out of the landfill and gets them to people who really need them.
Whether you’re an expert recycler or just getting started – the Sustainability Pledge can help you find ways to green your routine. Take the pledge and become part of Mohawk’s sustainability community!
