Keepin' it Green in College

• "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandhi


• Going green has never been more important. There are many ways today's college student can impact tomorrow's world. From the simple act of separating recyclables from the trash to planting a tree, you can make a difference! Recycling will dramatically decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills. It's up to every individual to recycle, reduce and reuse.


• Recycle. Recycle. Recycle: Just dividing paper, plastic, glass and aluminum for recycling instead of throwing them in the trash is a great start. Separating your plastic, glass, metal and paper doesn't have to be tedious. Set yourself up with recycle bins so it's never a hassle. Considering all the cool styles of bins and crates and the vast array of canvas bags and other storage units there are to choose from, your recycling strategy will be convenient as well as stylish. Be sure to always use biodegradable garbage bags for your trash. You're sure to be a trendsetter.


• Unplug: Today's technologically savvy generation needs to be environmentally savvy, too. Keep all those plugs for cell phones, chargers, iPods, computers, and printers plugged into a power strip and then shut 'em all off when you leave. And don't forget to shut off the lights either. It will save on energy and expenses.


• Get a Pair of Wheels or Go Mass Transit: You couldn't wait until you graduated from a bike or school bus to a car, but it may be more eco-friendly to peddle back in time. If you are commuting to class then riding a bike or taking public transportation can significantly limit the carbon footprint you leave behind. You won't have to fret about finding a parking spot either. If you're classes aren't too far away, get out and walk.


• Shut off the Water: The simple act of reducing the time you spend in the shower or not letting the water run unnecessarily as you brush your teeth is a great way to save gallons of water.


• Turn on the Tap: Get a stainless steel water bottle, invest in a water filter and get your water from the tap. By limiting the amount of bottled water you consume you'll cut down on the use of plastic and save yourself some money, too. Did you know that 31 billion bottles of water are sold annually? That means excess oil consumption for plastic production and more plastic in our landfills.


• Bag with Care: Think of all the plastic bags that go to waste every time you pick something up from the store. Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to degrade and most end up in landfills. Get yourself a reusable canvas bag for all shopping trips. There are plenty of styles from which to choose to make your very own eco-friendly fashion statement.


• Stop the Presses: Only print what you need. Go paperless as much as possible. Check with your professors to see if it's acceptable to hand in papers using both sides of the page. Some eco-friendly professors will even accept work via an email file. While you're at it, make sure to recycle your printer's ink cartridge, too.


• Lead by example in your earth-friendly effort. Dispose of batteries and light bulbs properly. Donate old items instead of trashing them. Buy used books to save paper and money. By minimizing waste and maximizing use, you're creating a bright future for everyone.