5 easy ways to reduce waste

5 Easy ways to reduce waste 

University is a big part of our lives. It’s a time for change and growth, learning new habits - and unlearning a whole lot of old ones. Throughout your studies, you’ll cross paths with students and professors from all across the world. In doing so, you’ll become more aware of global issues and environmental concerns. This can sometimes feel a bit daunting, but living a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle doesn’t need to be complicated. As a uni student, you have the power to make a real impact on the world through your choices and actions. Here are the top 5 ways you can help to reduce waste and protect our planet for future generations. You’ll see, being an earth warrior isn’t as impossible as it’s cracked up to be. From carrying reusables to thrift shopping, just a few small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference towards minimising your environmental footprint.

1. Avoid food waste

Eating on campus or ordering in takeaway can produce a lot of food and single-use plastic waste. Here are some handy tips to help reduce waste. Pay attention to portion sizes – Be mindful not to order more than you can eat so food doesn’t go to waste. If you’re ordering in, your reusable cutlery set will come in handy so you can say absolutely no thanks to disposable plastics. Meal prep - Prepare your breakfast and lunch for university ahead of time, so your groceries get used up. Cooking in batches and freezing any extras or leftovers is a cost-saver and helps cut down on unnecessary food waste.

2. Remember your reusables

Gen Z sustainability is so in. Between classes, studying and hanging out, the following eco-friendly reusables will fit right into your uni lifestyle. Remember to carry them wherever you go, just like you would your wallet, keys and phone and help reduce your impact on the environment. Reusable Water Bottle - Stop plastic pollution. Invest in a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and say goodbye to pesky single-use plastics that are filling up our landfills and oceans. We suggest going for something study like stainless steel or glass. Reusable tote bag - Ditching plastic bags can make a real difference in reducing waste. Instead, get yourself a stylish tote. You can use it for groceries, carrying around your textbooks or anything else you need while you’re on the go. There’s lots of eco-friendly brands to choose from. Find one with a design or slogan you love and get on board. Not only will you look cool saving the planet, but you’ll also save money on single-use shopping bags. Reusable coffee cup - If you’re like most university students, you rely on caffeine to power you through those early morning study sessions. Why not invest in a reusable coffee cup? It’s a more planet friendly way to enjoy your coffee, and it can save you money. Many coffee shops, including Starbucks and Costa offer discounts when you BYO cup. Reusable cutlery set - Get your hands on a pocket-sized reusable cutlery set, complete with chopsticks and a straw and you’ll be armed and ready to enjoy your meals more sustainably. You can also swap out your disposable paper napkins with reusable cloth ones to reduce paper waste.

3. Buy plastic free produce

When shopping for groceries, butchers and farmers markets are usually a good place to start on your journey to Zero Waste. Buy loose fruits and veg - We suggest buying loose fruits and vegetables rather than pre-packaged options from supermarkets. This way you can pick up exactly the amount you need and reduce excess plastic pollution. You’ll also be helping to support local businesses and strengthening your community while you reduce waste.

4. Give sustainable fashion a go

Make eco-friendly fashion choices. These sustainable fashion hacks will help you look your best without compromising your values (or burning a hole in your pocket)! Donate to charity shops - Instead of throwing away your old clothes or hoarding them away for ‘one day’, consider donating them to a local charity shop. This will help reduce textile waste and support someone in need. Just search ‘charity shops near me’ to find convenient options nearby and get in touch to arrange a drop off. Go thrift shopping - Hit up local thrift stores and charity shops to grab a bargain. You can find all sorts of unique, affordable fashion pieces that will set you apart on campus and reduce the demand for fast fashion. You can also raid your parents’ wardrobes for those one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that are totally making a comeback. Oxfam online shop is also a good option for second-hand, ethically sourced pieces. Upcycle your old clothes - Not wearing your old clothes but struggling to let them go? Turn your jeans into a skirt or t-shirts into a tote. You can also dye and embroider your old clothes pretty easily. All you need is a needle and thread and a little patience to learn a new pastime. Shop sustainable brands – There’s lot of sustainable fashion brands that prioritise eco-friendly materials and ethical production so you can look good while doing good. If you’re looking for a fun way to refresh your wardrobe, you can also host a clothes swap with your friends.

5. Make your own products

Want to save money while embracing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle? Get creative and have a go at making your own products. There are loads of DIY hacks online for home cleaning and beauty products to spare you some cash and give you full control over the ingredients used. Homemade cleaning supplies – Make your own cleaning solutions using simple things like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils. It’s good for the environment (no excess plastics) and also cost-effective. Personal care items – There’s loads of easy-to-follow hacks for making your own natural soap, shampoo, or lip balm.  It’s fun and has fewer ingredients which is better for both your body and the environment.

University is about so much more than the grades you get. It’s about making a positive change. Many universities and student accommodations have sustainability initiatives that you can get involved in like recycling and donation boxes. Between reusables, sustainable fashion and trying your hand out at some DIY, you can make a real difference in the global effort to reduce waste. Show everyone on campus how it’s done and hopefully you can inspire others to make more eco-friendly choices. Remember, reduce reuse recycle.