Going Green in College

College students are becoming more and more aware of their effect on the earth’s environment. Because of this, many are taking action and working to lessen their impact as well as the impact of those around them.

If you want to advance the green movement you will have no shortage of opportunities in college. Here are three ways you can help save the planet while living on campus.

1. Go to Environmental Rallies

If you want to stay current on environmental issues and be best informed on how you can help, visiting a rally is an opportunity you will have multiple times during your stay on campus. Colleges often have clubs dedicated to environmental issues and they will often host events to publicly share their knowledge and views.

In addition to being fun social events, rallies often are visited by well-known environmentalists who will be there to speak about relevant up-to-date issues. Going to see them speak is a great way to stay informed and learn how best you can help.

2. Join The “Green” Club on Campus

If the rally wasn’t enough for you, actually joining the organization that put it on is the next logical step. Joining other students who feel the same way you do about environmental issues is one way you can help the cause.

One of the best things you can do is become a leader in one of these organizations. Taking over as the President or VP of your club gives you the opportunity to make a difference while also building your credibility and resume.

If you want to become more active in the green movement after college, leading your club is one way to show that you are a mover and shaker, while learning the skills you will need to be effective further down the road.

3. Be a Role Model

If you’re part of the green movement, it can be hard to believe that others don’t feel the responsibility you do towards the earth. This may be especially prevalent in the early weeks after moving in with your roommates.

Your roommates may have never considered recycling particularly important, and they may have thought even less (if ever) about composting. Because you are living with these roommates every day, you have an opportunity to be a role model in this area.

Placing multiple clearly labeled bins in your dorm room and keeping your waste separate can create an environment where it is easy for your roommates to do the same. Taking action can have an effect on those around you as they see you taking a stand for what you find important.

Don’t push your non-recycling roommates too hard, however! Don’t forget that you need to live with them after scolding them about separating their plastics from their cardboard. The best thing to do is to take the initiative and make it easy for them to follow suit.