How Students Can Lower their Carbon Footprint

It is everyone’s responsibility to protect the planet. In addition, “going green” can be an excellent opportunity for some students to explore a pressing issue that continues to become a focus worldwide. Reports have shown that the Earth is warming faster than previously, causing concern among teens worldwide. According to a recent survey, one in four teens has engaged in some form of activism on ?climate change. 

As students prepare for college, SAT scores and personal statements can easily consume their attention. As students go to college and make the most of their school experience, they can also reduce their carbon footprint by staying mindful of their surroundings. Leading by example is especially important for students who are interested in environmentalism. Check out these simple eco-friendly steps to learn how to become the next Wangari Maathai and bring down your carbon footprint this semester.

Consider Switching to a Laptop

Isn’t it interesting that laptop computers consume up to 90% less energy than desktop computers? Consider swapping from a desktop to a laptop if you’ve been writing and researching on one. Many inexpensive ones on the market will satisfy your requirements with some research. In addition, it will reduce the amount of paper you use. Try not to use them as much as possible. 

Despite this, you’ll have to print some things, anyway. However, there are other things you can remove as well. You can, for example, take notes on your laptop or tablet digitally. Furthermore, you can access online study documents like this Biology paper to ace your way through education and lower your carbon footprint. If the document is for personal use, print it on both sides. You can replace paper agendas with a more helpful phone app. You can also set notifications, which is much more convenient.

Also, read Advantages of running an Eco-Friendly Business

Avoid Fast Fashion

It’s always tempting for fashion retailers to sell cheap and trendy clothes, but it’s not always an eco-friendly choice. As a result of the high amounts of pesticides used on genetically modified cotton, fast fashion is a significant contributor to textile waste and contamination. 

You can repurpose a few wardrobe staples you can buy in bulk for years instead of buying in bulk. Students can go green while saving green by shopping at local thrift stores for second-hand clothing. Besides being more affordable, second-hand clothing can reduce waste — and you may find something unique!

Eliminate Single-Use Plastics

You all know that plastic waste is a significant problem. Whenever possible, avoid single-use plastics. Taking one step at a time will make the transition easier.

For instance:

• Instead of buying single-use plastic bottles, buy reusable ones
• There are alternatives to plastic straws, such as paper and metal. Besides, for some drinks, there is no need for straws
• Avoid plastic-wrapped items
• If you plan to go grocery shopping, bring a cloth bag or backpack
• Take your coffee on the go with a reusable cup
• Although it may be challenging to eliminate single-use plastic, even the most minor changes can make a big difference

Consider Alternative Transportation Options

Exercise is not the only benefit of biking! Besides reducing your carbon footprint, it’s fun and easy. Students should explore alternatives to car use, such as walking, biking, and public transit, such as buses and trains, to help the environment. Not a fan of biking? 

Consider skateboarding, scootering, or even inline skating as alternatives! Although some students may not be able to take alternative transportation to school every day, cycling or other forms of transport can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while increasing your daily activity level.

Learn To Compost Food Waste

You can turn leftovers like chicken bones, banana peels, and pizza crusts into soil food instead of throwing them away. Composting — adding food waste, yard trimmings, and wood chips to soil — can improve the soil’s properties, thus resulting in higher crop yields. Furthermore, it helps restore forests and wetlands and reduces pollution from organic landfills, which reduces your carbon footprint. Coffee grounds, eggshells, fruit rinds, newspapers, and other carbon- and nitrogen-rich materials are suitable for composting.  

If you lack a garden, you can use tumblers, steel pails, or composting bins to layer leftover scraps on a soil bed, alternately adding moist and dry materials. Turn the compost every few weeks to introduce air mixture, and keep it moist by covering it with anything you can find. You can relieve stress from your classes by taking care of this! Once the compost is ready, add it to potted plants in your room and watch them flourish.

Conclusion

Any new endeavor can be challenging. But one slight change at a time isn’t so daunting. Changing your shopping, travel, and eating habits can substantially reduce your carbon footprint. You’re better off doing something than doing nothing, even if it’s only the bare minimum. 

Even in college, you can reduce your carbon footprint by trying one or more of these tips. Developing these habits early in life will help you take care of your local environment for the rest of your life.