10 Easy Sustainable Living Tips For College Students

There is so much to focus on in college so the fact that you’re adding living sustainably to your list of to-dos is amazing! The habits you create in college will stick with you so starting with the more eco friendly version is great for your future health and the planet! 

This post includes 10 practical ways you can have the best college experience while also being mindful of your impact on the environment. A major benefit to living sustainably is that you can actually save a lot of money since most of the tips include things like shopping second hand, borrowing items and even some free ideas! 

I know when I was in college I was balancing school, work, friends, and trying not to go broke so figuring out ways to live more minimally was better for my budget and the earth! I hope you find these tips helpful and can choose a few to implement into your own life! 

The Best Sustainable Living Tips For College Students 

1. Thrift furniture and use hand me downs for dorm decor 

Instead of buying everything brand new for your college dorm why not check out your local thrift store? You will save a TON of money and your dorm is guaranteed to look more unique! 

You will also be able to find better quality items at the thrift store that will last you all four years-or longer!

Big box stores pump out college dorm “essentials” during the summer and early fall. Some of the items you may not even need. Another great way to score dorm supplies is from family and friends that have already graduated! 

2. Join sustainability groups

One of the best parts of college is the community and friends you can make! There are probably numerous groups on your campus that are focused on sustainability.

Here are some ideas: 

• Gardening club
• Sustainability club 
• Clubs for majors (Geology, Biology, Ecology etc.) 
• Vegan club 
• Outdoorsy clubs (rock climbing, surfing, camping etc.) 
• Community service club 

If you can’t find a group you like-make your own! 

3. Compost

Does your campus have a compost center? Sometimes the greenhouse on campus will offer a place to put compost or some college are starting to have a compost option where they keep trash and recycling. Ask around and see if that’s an option for you! 

If not, check out this blog post all about how to compost in your dorm (and more ideas if you can’t find a place that composts on campus!) 

{RECOMMENDED POST: How to Compost in Your Dorm Room (Simple Tips!)}

4. Take classes about sustainability

Even if your major has nothing to do with sustainability, in this day I think it is important for everyone to be educated about the topic! Even if it is just one class. If you have room in your schedule or want to take a summer class, try to fit one in! 

Also, if you are able to study abroad there are a lot of great opportunities to learn about sustainability along your travels!  

5. Walk, bike, carpool or take the bus for transportation

College campuses make so much sense in terms of sustainable transportation! 

I feel like I walked everywhere in college but there is always biking, skate boarding, rollerblading-whatever works! 

6. Volunteer with an environmental group

A great way to learn more about sustainability is actually getting your hands in the dirt! Check out groups on campus or in your college town that are advocating for the planet.

Even if a nonprofit is not directly related to sustainability it can still be beneficial to the planet to volunteer there. Community care is a part of sustainability because when everyone has their basic needs met we can then collectively tackle bigger issues like climate change.

7. Get second hand tech

Buying a brand new laptop for college can be extremely expensive. Luckily there are websites and shops that sell refurbished tech items. 

These are some of the best websites! 

• Apple
• Best Buy 
• Decluttr 

8. Meal prep plant based lunches

Meal prepping is such a great way to stay organized and healthy in college. Choosing plant based options is a great way to be kinder to the earth and your body! It is really a win win all around. 

I have some simple plant based meals here and on my social media (links below)! Or there is always Pinterest that has loads of other easy plant based meals you can prep for the week. 

Even if you don’t want to go fully vegan, having a few plant based meals and snacks planned for the week will make a bigger impact than you may realize! 

9. Buy used textbooks when possible

Every semester you have a long list of books to buy that you most likely will not read again when the semester ends. Instead of going to the campus book store and getting new books check out their used book section.

You can also ask friends if they have taken the class and see if you can borrow their old books. Lastly, renting books is always a great option! Check out your library or Chegg.com 

{RECOMMENDED POST: The 5 Best Sustainable Notebooks For School, Work and Journaling}

10. Swap clothes with friends

Thrifting is getting more and more popular lately. It is a great way to save clothes from getting tossed in the landfill and giving them a second life. 

If thrifting isn’t your thing consider swapping clothes with friends or hosting a clothes swap night where a group of your friends can bring clothes to swap! 

How do you live a sustainable lifestyle while in college? Did I miss any tips? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! 

Be sure to sign up for the newsletter if you would like sustainability and wellness tips sent directly to your inbox! 

Stay well, 

Maggie 

This post was all about the best sustainable living tips for college students.

Other posts you may like: 

• Exactly How to Create A Zero Waste Community Or Find One Near You
• 11 Unique Sustainable Office Supplies for a Greener Workspace
• 7 Incredibly Helpful Zero Waste Apps to Support Your Sustainable Lifestyle Goals

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