While Earth Day is a special time to acknowledge the impact we have on the environment around us, we can make simple changes each day that will help us take care of the Earth.
Avoid single-use items: If you often rely on single-use items, try replacing them with reusable options. Plastic water bottles, paper plates and plastic grocery bags are easily replaced with items that can be used more than once. If you do use these items, recycle or reuse what you can. Plastic bottles can be refilled in the purified water fountains on campus and recycled in the bins on The Green, in residence halls and other buildings on campus.
Water conservation: Conserving water is an easy way to support the environment daily. Whether it be turning the faucet off while brushing your teeth or taking shorter showers, small acts can make a difference. Other ways to practice conservation at home include only running the washing machine or dishwasher for full loads of clothes and not letting the water run when handwashing dishes.
Rethink your travel plans: Rather than hopping in your car for the daily commute, consider car pooling options. Having a car concert on the way to work or class is more fun with a friend anyway. Also, if your commute to class is short, consider walking, biking, skating or scooting to class.
Print with purpose: To avoid printing, some professors and students choose to use online books or assignments. If this is unavoidable for you, consider printing on the front and back of the page. This cuts the number of pages in half and you are half as likely for all of your papers to fly away on those windy Birmingham days.
