Even as a student, there’s so much you can do to help care for our planet – and your home is a great place to start. Here are our top tips on how you can live in a more eco-friendly student home.
1. Be sensible with your heating.
If you’re able to control the heating in your room or flat, make sure you’re smart about how much you consume.
There’s no need to heat an empty place if you’re going to be out all day (or for extended periods of time). And the same goes for air conditioning, if you have it.
Where possible, ‘layer up’ when you’re at home and use extra blankets in bed.
2. Reuse and recycle.
Chances are your student flat has recycling bins or you’re not too far away from recycling facilities.
Grasping what’s recyclable and what isn’t can be hard sometimes, especially if it’s your first time living from home – but with a bit of practice it’ll come naturally to you.
Also, reusing old containers, boxes or jars can be a great way to save on buying home accessories.
3. Switch off your appliances at the mains.
Laptops, computers and TVs can still use power even when on standby. Cut down on your electricity consumption by switching them off when you’re not using them.
4. Use less water.
It’s so easy to leave taps running or take extra long showers, especially when water bills are included in your weekly rent.
As tempting as it is to spend half an hour in the shower, lengthy washing sessions aren’t great for the environment. Neither is leaving your tap running whilst brushing your teeth. So, where possible, use less water.
5. Don’t overfill your kettle.
Overfilling your kettle is a waste of both water and electricity. If you’re only making one cup of tea or coffee, there’s no need to fill your kettle right up to the brim and boil a full pot of water. Boil just enough water to make however many drinks you need.
6. Avoid food waste.
If you’re new to cooking for yourself, it can be quite difficult knowing how much to prepare for each meal. Try to avoid wasting food by serving just the right amounts and saving leftovers for the next day instead of throwing them away.
7. Dry your clothes the old-fashioned way.
Whilst tumble dryers offer a quick and easy way to dry your washing, hanging your clothes up to dry the ‘old-fashioned way’ is much more eco-friendly. When indoor temperatures are high enough, your washing will dry naturally within a day.
Looking for student accommodation? Find the best selection of student rooms on Student.com.