Protecting the Earth can sometimes seem so distant from us. As UC Davis puts a huge emphasis on sustainability, we are encouraged to think about the environment more often, recycle, and help make the planet a better place. Additionally, for this upcoming Earth Day, we can try to do a little bit extra to give back to the community. Even as a college student, there are a bunch of alternative ways to live eco-friendly.
1. Switch to online textbooks
Try Inclusive Access from the campus bookstore if you are okay with reading from a screen! The online textbooks at UC Davis have been available since 2014. With e-books, we don’t have to carry heavy textbooks all day in our backpacks. We own a whole library just within our laptops or mobile devices. Currently, a large portion of classes use digital access for textbooks, homework, and other activities. Online books are both cheaper and easier to obtain in the long run.
2. Save your paper
Printing services are prevalent, convenient, and affordable on campus. However, when you have to print a hard copy of a long essay or assignment, ask your TA or professor if they will allow you to print on both sides. It is so easy to use less paper if we remember to click on the “both sides” option. This allows us to save a little bit of money and support a good cause, too.
3. Leave your car at home
Hey Aggies, don’t forget we are in a bicycle town and are lucky to have Unitrans in the city! Commuting between campus and home by Unitrans costs no fee and lowers our overall carbon footprint. Another great option is to ride your bike to Davis. It’s good for the air, the environment, and your wallet.
4. Bring your own bottle
Always keep hydrated and bring a reusable bottle. I know paper and plastic cups are easy to buy and dump, which means you don’t need to worry about the future storage of them. However, their resulting impact on soil, water systems, and the environment can be devastating. So why don’t we take out our own unique mugs every time we check out at a coffee spot? Plus, good news: Starbucks and the UC Davis CoHo always offer discounts when you provide your own containers (you get $.25 off at CoHo every time you bring your own cup), and that money adds up!
5. Cook your own food
If you eat out less often, restaurants also waste less food. There are numerous resources on or near campus which provide fresh veggies and raw materials, such as the Farmer’s Market held every Wednesday and Saturday. Additionally, there are other stands located inside the MU. At Aggie Compass and the ASUCD Pantry, we just need to show our student IDs and we can pick up local produce for free!
Although celebrating Earth Day is important, don’t just take action for one day of the year. Try to maintain good habits and be aware of your environmental impact!