How to be an eco-friendly student
Life as a student presents many challenges - but that doesn’t mean that living a sustainable lifestyle whilst studying needs to be hard.
Reusable products
Reusable products are a great option when you’re a student (and any age, really!) because it means you won’t have to make as many purchases as frequently - helping you save on the pennies and look after the environment.
Some of the most common reusable products that you’ll use day to day include:
Reusable coffee cups
Reusable water bottle
Metal straws
These are great to keep in your kitchen cupboard and have ready for when you’re on the move. Early morning lecture? Make a coffee and take it with you, instead of visiting your nearest cafe. If you can’t resist your local cafe, then at least take the cup with you so you won’t need to use a disposal cup.
Reusable water bottles are great - just remember to keep them clean! These are great to pack with you on your way to lectures, or even just out and about. If you live in student accommodation and you’re a long way from the kitchen, it’s a good way to stay hydrated too - less trips to the kitchen!
Staying sustainable doesn’t mean things can’t be fun. Metal straws can be a great way to spruce up your drink. Most metal straws come with a handy brush to help keep them clean too. Again, saves you buying any wasteful plastic straws that can be damaging to our environment and wildlife.
Recycling & disposing of waste
Depending on your accommodation, you might have a different recycling scheme or waste disposal system in place, but it’s important that you look to see how you can recycle your waste products.
We recommend two websites. Firstly, check when you can expect your local council to come and collect your general rubbish and recycling bins. This will vary depending on exactly where you live. Stay on top of this - set a reminder in your calendar if you need to. It’s one of the easiest ways to get rid of waste and recycle, and avoid rubbish piling up in your accommodation!
Find your rubbish collection day here
If you have something more specific that you’d like to recycle, but not sure if you can, where, or how, then we recommend visiting Recycle Now, where you can type in the item and find out where you can recycle or dispose of it safely near your location.
Find out where you can recycle specific items here
If you’re lucky enough to have some outdoor space, why not build your own compost heap? This is a great way to help dispose of kitchen waste, as well as creating a source of compost - why not try and grow some fruits and vegetables to eat?
If you do have the space, check out how to build your own compost heap here.
Public transport
Travelling to and from uni? Or heading back home for the summer or Christmas holidays? You need to make sure you’ve got some student travel sorted - your bank balance will thank you for it.
Sign up for a 16-25 Railcard, it will give you 1/3 off rail travel, and for only £30 it’s a great bargain.
Register and start saving now.
As well as the financial benefits, it’s also a great way to be kinder to the planet. In 2021 it was found that transport was the largest emitting sector of greenhouse gas, producing 26% of the UK’s total emissions. We all still need to travel, of course, but doing so by using public transport can be a lot friendlier to our planet.
Sustainable fashion
When it comes to sustainable fashion, there are actually quite a lot of options, depending on whether you want to shop on the go or make a day of it.
Local thrift & vintage sales in your area:
Chances are there’s a vintage sale going on near you. Most big towns and cities will have these regularly, where you’ll be able to browse and buy, often at a set price per kilo. This is a good chance to make sure you actually want what you’re buying - feel the fabric, try it on, and get a good price.
Here are some of our favourite recommendations:
Charity shops
Charity shops are fantastic for finding unique and affordable clothing while supporting a good cause. These shops often receive a wide variety of donations, so you never know what gems you might discover. By shopping at charity shops, you are not only reducing the demand for fast fashion but also giving pre-loved items a new life. Here are some tips for making the most out of your charity shop visits:
Visit regularly: Stock in charity shops changes frequently, so visiting regularly increases your chances of finding something you love.
Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and be willing to browse through different sections. Sometimes the best finds are hidden in unexpected places.
Check for quality: Inspect items for any signs of wear and tear. Many charity shops only accept good-quality donations, but it's always good to double-check.
Ask about discounts: Some charity shops offer student discounts or have special sale days. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for any ongoing promotions.
Donate your unwanted items: If you have clothes or other items you no longer need, consider donating them to charity shops. It's a great way to declutter and support the community.
Exploring charity shops is not only eco-friendly but also a fun and rewarding experience. Happy thrifting!
Online second-hand fashion
Online platforms and apps have made it easier than ever to buy and sell second-hand clothing, promoting sustainable fashion and reducing the demand for fast fashion. Here are some popular options:
Vinted: Vinted is a user-friendly app where you can buy, sell, and swap pre-loved clothing. It's a great platform for finding affordable, unique pieces while also decluttering your own wardrobe. Vinted offers a wide variety of items, from everyday wear to designer pieces.
Depop: Depop is a social shopping app that combines the best of e-commerce and social media. It allows users to buy and sell second-hand clothing, accessories, and even vintage items. Depop's interface is similar to Instagram, making it easy to browse and discover new styles.
eBay: eBay is one of the largest online marketplaces, offering a vast selection of second-hand clothing and accessories. You can find everything from high-street brands to designer labels. eBay also has an auction feature, allowing you to bid on items and potentially grab a bargain.
eBay has a sale on selected styles in their fashion range - use code SIZZLE15 for 15% off until 21st July.
Eco-friendly eating habits
Making eco-friendly choices with your eating habits is a great way to contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Try "Meatless Mondays": Reducing your meat consumption, even just one day a week, can have a significant impact on the environment. Meat production is resource-intensive and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By participating in "Meatless Mondays," you can help reduce your carbon footprint and discover delicious plant-based meals.
Become a vegetarian or flexitarian: Adopting a vegetarian or flexitarian diet is another effective way to live more sustainably. A vegetarian diet eliminates meat entirely, while a flexitarian diet reduces meat consumption without completely cutting it out. Both options promote a more plant-based diet, which is generally better for the environment.
Choose local and seasonal produce: Buying local and seasonal produce reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. It also supports local farmers and ensures that you are eating fresh, nutrient-rich foods.
Reduce food waste: Plan your meals, store food properly, and get creative with leftovers to minimise food waste. Composting food scraps is another excellent way to prevent waste from ending up in landfills.
Opt for organic and sustainable products: Whenever possible, choose organic and sustainably sourced food products. Organic farming practices are generally better for the environment, as they avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilisers.
By making these small changes to your eating habits, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
Water conservation
Conserving water is an essential part of living an eco-friendly lifestyle. Here are some practical tips to help you reduce water usage:
Turn off taps when brushing your teeth: It's a simple habit, but turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save a significant amount of water. Only turn it on when you need to rinse.
Take shorter showers: Reducing your shower time by just a few minutes can save litres of water. See how short you can get it by timing yourself via songs!
Fix leaks promptly: Even small leaks can waste a lot of water over time. If you notice any leaks in your accommodation, report them to your landlord or fix them yourself if possible.
Use a water-efficient showerhead: Installing a water-efficient showerhead can help reduce water usage without compromising on your shower experience.
Collect and reuse water: If you have plants, consider collecting water from rinsing fruits and vegetables to use for watering them. You can also collect rainwater for this purpose if you have the means to do so.
Wash full loads: When using a washing machine or dishwasher, make sure to run full loads to maximise water efficiency. Avoid running these appliances for just a few items.
By incorporating these water conservation practices into your daily routine, you can help reduce your water footprint and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
Zero waste supermarkets
Zero waste supermarkets are a fantastic option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. These shops allow you to purchase food and household items without unnecessary packaging, encouraging you to bring your own containers and bags. By shopping at zero waste shops, you can significantly cut down on plastic waste and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
Here are some zero waste grocery supermarkets in London that you may want to check out:
The Source Bulk Foods
Located in multiple areas across London, The Source Bulk Foods offers a wide range of bulk food items, including grains, nuts, spices, and snacks. They also stock eco-friendly household products and personal care items, plus free, nationwide delivery over £50!
Naked Larder
Naked Larder is a zero waste food co-op based in Herne Hill. They offer a variety of dried foods, oils, and cleaning products. You can order online and collect your goods in reusable containers to minimise waste.
Unpackaged
Unpackaged is a pioneer in the zero waste movement, offering bulk food items and household products. They have a concession in Planet Organic stores across London, making it convenient to shop sustainably.
Living an eco-friendly lifestyle as a student is not only beneficial for the environment but can also enhance your overall student experience. By incorporating simple changes like using reusable products, recycling, opting for public transport, embracing sustainable fashion, making eco-friendly food choices, conserving water, and shopping at zero waste supermarkets, you can make a significant positive impact. Remember, every small action counts, and together, we can create a more sustainable future. Start your journey today and inspire others to join you in making a difference for our planet.
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