A College Student’s Guide for Going Green
By Jennifer Mino

Green is in the air. From Starbuck’s environmentally friendly programs to replacing the red carpet at the Oscar’s with a green one, caring about the environment is no longer a radical way of thought.

At this year’s 79th annual Academy Awards, the Academy and the production team for the awards teamed up with the Natural Resources Defense Council to help make the awards ceremony earth-friendly or “green.” Many celebrities supported this change by driving up in eco-friendly chauffeured rides.

These lifestyle changes may have been easy for celebrities to make, but college students may not have the budget to buy (never mind being chauffeured in) a hybrid or electric vehicle. However, there are many small changes college students can make that are hassle-free, inexpensive—and beneficial to the environment. For example:

• Take shorter showers.
• Bike or walk to class instead of driving. If you commute, opt for public transportation such as the Metro or bus.
• Turn off the lights when leaving a room. You help the environment and lower your monthly utility bill.
• In the winter months, open the shades to let in sunlight for warmth. Lower them in the summer months to keep rooms cool.
• Recycle! Whether it’s metal, glass or paper, use all the recycling receptacles on campus.
• Buy products made of recycled material.
• Turn off your computer when you are not using it.
• Fill one water bottle regularly. Over time, you will enjoy the extra pocket change!
• Don’t throw your clothes away. Consign them or donate them to a charity.