Go Green While Moving to Campus This Fall
Austin, Texas: College students–it’s now move-in time!
Students are probably the most green demographic, and helping them pack, might also rub some “green” onto parents.
As we load up cars to move our students into their apartments, dorms, or condos, we found some simple ways to go green:
Furniture: Visit resale shops, Goodwill or use Craigslist to find some tremendous bargains–and to prevent those items from ending up in landfills. Reuse is probably THE most effective way to go green, as nothing new has to be produced.
Clothing: Pack clothes in suitcases, reusable shopping bags and even used corrugated boxes. The goal is zero waste…and this can easily be accomplished.
This is also a good time to sort through older clothes — and to donate to a charity or to neighbors.
Appliances: Now is the perfect time to donate some older appliance to your child, so that you can upgrade. If that is not applicable, then try to look for the “Energy Star” logo on appliances when a new one is a must. This will greatly reduce energy consumption.
Less is more: Avoid clutter. Most people tend to over-pack, so make a list, then check it twice. Then try to eliminate at least 4 or 5 items from the list.
Drinkware: Be sure to pack plenty of reusable water bottles and coffee tumblers to encourage conservation.
Transportation: Most campuses and off-campus dorms offer very reliable mass transit. Is a car necessary?
If so, remind your child to empty their trunks and keep their tire pressure filled to reduce fuel consumption.
Pack a bike: Bicycle travel can be best on many campuses, especially where parking is tight. Be sure to pack one, or buy one once they arrive on campus. Again, eBay or Craigslist often have ample bargains available for the budget-minded student.
These were just a few ideas that we thought of this week while packing up.
What other ideas do you have?
Let me know, so we can get the word out.
