A College Environmentalist
As a college student, I have felt in the past that there is not much that I can do to make a difference on our environment. I am a chemistry major and sometimes people think that my interest in environmental sustainability is a little puzzling. Big chemical development agencies tend to be more concerned about money than actually benefitting the environment. But, I believe that sustainability and chemistry go hand-in-hand. The upcoming scientists and developers in the world have the chance to change the system and we should become more interested in more sustainable options for our environment. Environmental sustainability should be made aware across the board in college campuses, particularly for those of us entering the research fields and manufacturing settings. I know everyone is not able to participate directly in manufacturing or research, but there is quite a bit that you as a consumer can do. If a consumer demands a certain product that is within the capabilities of the manufacturer, they will change methods to accommodate for this demand.
It seems overwhelming at times thinking about all of the harmful things I could potentially have in my life that does not just hurt me, but also the environment. Cosmetics, fashion, hair products, plastics, paint, waste; it all get overwhelming to decide where to start on lessening our impact or consumption of these products. Buying a product that says "organic", "chemical-free", or "recycled product" does not necessarily mean these products are safe or as environmentally conscious as they claim to be.
So, what can I do as a college consumer?
When you need/want to buy something- do your research.
This, unfortunately, is not necessarily easy or timely with some products. Doing your research is definitely worthwhile when you can feel good about purchasing a product from a company with environmental interests at heart.
Don't buy what you don't need but if you need it; buy responsibly.
Not only will your already slim wallet thank you, but it also creates a simpler lifestyle. This was an issue for me with clothes. Being a poor college student, the idea of a $5 shirt from the mall sounds like a splendid option. However, the more I look at fast fashion and the impact it has on the workers in the industry as well as the environment from the textile wastes, I am slowly starting to change my wardrobe into a more environmentally and morally conscious wardrobe. Staple items, such as a black shirt or a jacket, I will buy from a certified fair trade organization or a company I have done research on that has more than financial interests at heart. These items cost more, but are made with better quality and last longer. I set a certain amount of money aside for these larger purchases so when I need it, I am able to cast my vote at a company that I trust in and want to purchase from.
Lessen your non-biodegradable waste and opt for reusable items.
If you are concerned about your plastic usage and waste, consider purchasing reusable items if it is something you use daily or often. This could be bamboo utensils, beeswax wrap for lunches, or reusable straws. This really depends on how much you use as well as how far you are able to lessen your use of non-biodegradable waste because sometimes it can be unavoidable, especially on a college campus. My motto is always to try your best. It is near impossible to reduce your waste to zero; however, there are a lot of things you can do to if you want "zero" waste as your goal.
Start Voicing Your Opinions
Plenty of companies have changed packaging to adapt to consumer's wishes on reusable or biodegradable packaging. If this is something that you are passionate or concerned about, let them know! A great media for this is Instagram. Comment on a picture to kindly ask if they have these options available and that you would be more likely to buy their already awesome products if they had the packaging you were looking for.
So, what can I do as a college consumer?
When you need/want to buy something- do your research.
This, unfortunately, is not necessarily easy or timely with some products. Doing your research is definitely worthwhile when you can feel good about purchasing a product from a company with environmental interests at heart.
Don't buy what you don't need but if you need it; buy responsibly.
Not only will your already slim wallet thank you, but it also creates a simpler lifestyle. This was an issue for me with clothes. Being a poor college student, the idea of a $5 shirt from the mall sounds like a splendid option. However, the more I look at fast fashion and the impact it has on the workers in the industry as well as the environment from the textile wastes, I am slowly starting to change my wardrobe into a more environmentally and morally conscious wardrobe. Staple items, such as a black shirt or a jacket, I will buy from a certified fair trade organization or a company I have done research on that has more than financial interests at heart. These items cost more, but are made with better quality and last longer. I set a certain amount of money aside for these larger purchases so when I need it, I am able to cast my vote at a company that I trust in and want to purchase from.
Lessen your non-biodegradable waste and opt for reusable items.
If you are concerned about your plastic usage and waste, consider purchasing reusable items if it is something you use daily or often. This could be bamboo utensils, beeswax wrap for lunches, or reusable straws. This really depends on how much you use as well as how far you are able to lessen your use of non-biodegradable waste because sometimes it can be unavoidable, especially on a college campus. My motto is always to try your best. It is near impossible to reduce your waste to zero; however, there are a lot of things you can do to if you want "zero" waste as your goal.
Start Voicing Your Opinions
Plenty of companies have changed packaging to adapt to consumer's wishes on reusable or biodegradable packaging. If this is something that you are passionate or concerned about, let them know! A great media for this is Instagram. Comment on a picture to kindly ask if they have these options available and that you would be more likely to buy their already awesome products if they had the packaging you were looking for.
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