By Claire Leibowitz, Marketing and Outreach
With a global warming alarm at risk of going off as early as 2027, it is important to remember that every small change matters. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, most emissions are caused by electricity and heat production and other large industries which means that individuals should be doing everything in their power to reduce waste on this planet.
Single-use plastics are unnecessary and can be slowly phased out for multi-use, environmentally conscious alternatives. As college students, it may seem hard or expensive to change routines and products, but long-term use of reusable items can save a significant amount of money while simultaneously saving your environment.
Changes can be small or all-in, depending on how they fit into your daily routine. Some basic – already popular – changes include using reusable water bottles, metal straws, canvas totes and reusable bags for fruits and vegetables at the grocery store. These items are easy to clean, store and reuse. They are BPA-free, cheap and effective for reducing your carbon footprint.
In terms of hygiene, it’s easy to get caught up in plastic soap bottles, toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and deodorants. Instead of buying a toothbrush with heavy plastic packaging and an all-plastic handle, opt for a bamboo toothbrush that’s soft, sturdy and biodegradable. To accompany a new toothbrush, try toothpaste from sustainable brands like Tom’s or bite pods that come in plastic-free packaging and give you the perfect amount of paste every time.
Shower products can also be wasteful. Instead of picking up a bottle of soap, go for a bar soap made by sustainable and eco-friendly companies with plastic-free packaging. To make your shower routine completely plastic-free, investigate shampoo and conditioner bars that are also environmentally conscious and work just as well as the traditional kind. To replace your razor, try out sustainable brands like Shave 5 or Oui the People, depending on your price range. Safety razors are more sustainable than disposable ones and all you have to do is replace the blade. When shaving, look into plant-based shaving creams and recycle what you can.
Detergents and dryer sheets can also be a killer for the planet. Using dryer balls or biodegradable and compostable fabric softener sheets are easy options that are barely a swap for your original single-use products. Dropps offers packages of cruelty-free detergents without harmful chemicals or dyes that come with compostable packaging. This detergent is gentle, helping to preserve your clothes better than regular detergents.
Finally, for self-care and beauty, opt for reusable cotton rounds and q-tips that can last a lifetime. They’re easy to wash and can be found online!.
Thinking about the planet and climate change can be overwhelming. Taking things one step (or product) at a time can reduce your carbon footprint on the world. Supporting sustainable companies makes them more popular, attracting even more people. It’s the little things that matter, as they add up to something even bigger.
