Getting Green

I’ve realized Brown students’ reputation as Birkenstock wearing, tree-hugging hippies isn’t accurate. Anyone who lived or visited Keeney Quad knows we prefer smoking trees to hugging them. Being green isn’t a big deal on campus. You’re more likely to endanger your Brunonian credibility through your collection of Katy Perry songs than over your contribution to the campus’ Natty light-can epidemic each Spring Weekend.

No worries or indignant responses necessary. Here are five ways you can contribute to Brown’s path towards eco-enlightenment.

1. Check out Brown is Green

The best way to be more eco-conscious is to learn what you can do.  Find out how Brown is trying to be green. The website also features an interactive dorm room tool that shows you how you can limit your carbon footprint.

2.  Don’t Trash, Donate

Sometimes you get tired of the things you own.  Whether you’re moving out of your room at the end of the year, or you want to clear out the clutter, make the effort to donate. That oversized, mustard-colored, YMCA, hoodless, sweatshirt you’ve had since middle school might be the perfect accompaniment to someone’s teal, corduroy circle skirt and chunky, square-rimmed glasses. I know they’re prescription, #nojudgment.

At the end of the year AEPi collects unwanted dorm furniture and appliances. Plus there is both a Salvation Army and a Saver’s less than 2 miles away from College Hill. If you can’t make the trek to either, ask friends if they want to donate and schedule a pick-up.

3. Be a Well-Informed Consumer

The more the green movement grows the more companies’ try to capitalize on conscientious consumers.  Don’t trust the tagline. Make sure a company’s claim
to environmental friendliness is true. You help the environment and get help making decisions. Unsure if you really want that box of Cheez-its? Let the company’s Green Rankings decide for you.

4.  Don’t be ‘that girl’

That girl who puts her gum under the seat—litter girl. The girl who uses aerosol hairspray every morning in the bathroom—ozone-polluting girl. The girl who loudly complains about Beyond the Bottle—landfill-filler girl. Need help quitting?  Imagine this happens every time you become ‘that girl’.

5. Get Involved

Go to an event that focuses on environmental issues or join a eco-focused student group. Consider taking a class on an green-related subject that interests you.  

Whatever you choose to do or don’t do has an effect on the environment. Just remember, a little consideration can go a long way.