Okay, so it’s 2023. When talking about how to have more planet-friendly habits, we’ve gone past discussing using your own shopping bags.
However, there is still lots that we can be doing to reduce our impact on the planet.
Use. Less. Paper.
Even following the days of blended learning, students are still finding themselves swamped in unnecessary paper that could have been avoided.
Try taking your notes on a laptop. Not only will this save you carrying bulky folders around, but all of your work will be in one place.
If you struggle with typed notes, perhaps investing in a tablet and smart pen would benefit you. This means that you can see your notes in your own handwriting, but again, makes it easily accessible and results in the chopping down of fewer trees – helping the planet!
If you are unable to make a big purchase at the moment, most university libraries offer a laptop loan service. This service might be limited by numbers so make sure you get in there early.
Avoid Fast Fashion
Targeted social media advertising is currently at an all-time high. As a result, fast fashion currently has the ultimate platform on which to promote their brand.
In 2023, challenge yourself to avoid these brands by blocking their ads and considering alternative slow-fashion brands such as This is Unfolded and Molby The Label.
Second-hand sites are also great for getting gorgeous clothes at a fraction of the price. This saves items from being sent to our planet’s growing landfill.
See also: Five Reasons You Should Start Journaling
Ditch Single-Use Items
With the new recent announcement that France has banned all single-use tableware (even at McDonalds!), it shouldn’t be too long until neighbouring countries follow suit.
Don’t forget to take your own crockery when eating on the go, and remember that you can ask for takeaway cups without lids if the only option offered is plastic.
Have Meat-Free Days
Using ‘The Darwin Challenge’ app, you are able to calculate how meat-free days not only impact the environment, but also your health.
With so many delicious vegetarian and vegan options on the market at the moment, you might be having meat-free days without even realising. ‘Veganuary’ discounts are a great way of trialling going meat-free. This is one of the best planet-friendly habits you can adopt in 2023.
Be Aware of how you Travel
With road vehicles accounting for nearly three quarters of greenhouse gas emissions, your daily commute might be negatively impacting on the planet. If you are able to, walk, cycle or even catch the train on your commute to try to reduce your carbon footprint.
For longer journeys, consider the ‘flight shame’ movement and start researching alternative options for flying.
Read next: Five Tips For Doing Multi-Day Exams