Discussion posts. Lectures. Finals. Just a few things that are constantly running through a college student’s mind. We are all desperately trying to turn in that assignment we forgot about before the 11:59 PM deadline.
We can all agree that we have very busy schedules and are trying to balance classes, club organizations, work study, and maybe even a job. We often forget about all the issues happening outside of our campus.
Although many of us may live in the dorms, that doesn’t mean we should forget about important social issues that are affecting our environment and our planet. The fact of the matter is that global warming is a reality and pollution is at its highest.
Here are just a few things that we can all do to strive for a healthier and clean environment.
1. Buy a Brita/ Reusable Water Bottle
One of the best purchases you and your roommates can make this semester is buying a Brita. All you have to do is refill it with tap water and wait for it to filter. Cut down on plastic! Buy a reusable water bottle – Our campus is equipped with water refill stations so you can quickly fill up while you’re on the go.
2. Recycle!
I know, basic. But many of us forget that instead of throwing things away, we can easily place them in the recycle bins placed all over campus and in the dorms. You can recycle everything from cardboard, plastic, glass, and paper.
3. Avoid using your vehicle
Our campus is located in downtown St. Petersburg. Whether you are taking a stroll down Central Avenue or wanting to go to the beach, we have so many alternatives to driving our own vehicles. You can easily take the public bus or even the trolley. These two transportation services are free to all USFSP students as long as you present your student ID with a PSTA U-Pass that you can easily ask for at the front desk of USC. Other alternatives include walking, biking, or longboarding.
4. Use a Diva Cup
Ladies! It may seem like a taboo but it’s slowly becoming popular. Many women don’t think about how many pads, tampons, and pantyliners are thrown out every time you menstruate. It is estimated that in an average lifetime, one women can use up to 12,000 to 16,000 hygienic products. Choose the eco-friendly route and purchase a diva cup. A single diva cup can be reused and should be replaced once a year but with proper care can last up to 10 years.
5. Save Energy
When you and your roommates leave your dorm, make sure you turn off all the lights and unplug appliances that are not being used. An easy way to remember this is to simply switch off the surge protector or power strip that your electronics are connected to.
With these helpful tips, I hope everyone makes the conscious decision to help out our planet and battle the issues affecting our climate.
HCXOXO,
Vanessa Rivera