Routine college life can generate a lot of waste. But conserving and staying “green” at UCLA is easier than students might think. Follow a few ecofriendly tips ““ whether you are on the Hill, in an apartment or on campus ““ and you will make life at UCLA a little greener.
Recycle everything
College students tend to waste a lot ““ notebooks, scrap paper, paper napkins, move-in boxes, bottles and cans. To eliminate some waste, write on both sides of notebook paper.
Use the recycling containers that are available in every residence hall and on campus.
If you’re in an apartment without recycling bins, take recyclables to get cash back for them or take them to campus and sort them there. Recycling is a quick and easy step that contributes to a “greener” campus.
Dining
Invest in inexpensive dishes to eliminate waste and save money. Disposable cups, bowls and plates may tempt the average college student seeking to save time and avoid a lot of clean-up when living away from home, but they contribute to a lot of waste. It’s easy to wash a plate when in an apartment, and students in the residence halls can wash dishes in the bathroom.
The all-you-can-eat system in the residence halls leads to a lot of wasted food. Be mindful of how much you are taking, and think about what you will actually eat.
Conserve energy
When you leave your room or apartment for class, turn off your lights and unplug your computer. Leaving appliances plugged in wastes energy.
Take the shortest showers possible. If you are in a residence hall with air conditioning, turn it off when you head to class. It’s easy to forget about these things, since students in residence halls do not pay separately for electricity, but keeping them in mind is a great way to stay ecofriendly.
Walk, bike, or take public transportation
UCLA’s campus is ideal for walking and there are bike paths for those who like to cycle.
Even if you are traveling farther outside of Westwood, public transportation is a key way to eliminate pollution and save money on gas.
Compiled by Carolyn McGough, Bruin contributor.
SOURCES: Kathy Tran, Environmental Bruins president; Diana Ionescu, Social Justice Alliance coordinator; Heidi Winner, former Environmental Bruins president