Save Money, Save the Planet: 10 Back to School Sustainability Tips

The start of a new school year is always an exciting time. With a near year comes new opportunities to live sustainably. Here are 10 ways to help the planet and your wallet this fall:

1. Pack lunches in reusable containers with reusable silverware from home. Not only will you save money by not eating out, but you’ll also save a significant amount of waste over the course of the year.
2. Strive not to drive! By using sustainable methods of transportation like biking, walking, skateboarding, or taking the bus, you won’t have to worry about parking plus you’ll get fresh air and exercise. Need a bike? Check out our reCycle Bike rental program!
3. Looking to add some pieces to your wardrobe? From interview suits to the perfect pair of vintage jeans, local thrift stores are a great way to reduce textile waste and add something one-of-a-kind to your closet.
4. Use digital resources like Google Calendar or iCal to keep up with deadlines, events, and tasks. Not only will you save paper, but you’ll be able to access your calendars and to-do lists across all your devices.
5. No need to buy all new notebooks if you have a few from last semester that aren’t entirely used up. If you have notebooks with blank pages hanging around, consider taking notes this year starting from the back of those notebooks and getting more use out of them. 
6. If you’re new to FSU, consider using your backpack from high school. No need to buy new!
7. Be powered by plants! Load up your plate or lunch bag with lots of fruits and veggies.
8. Take advantage of our campus libraries! By checking books out instead of buying them, you save paper and carbon emissions associated with producing new books! Plus is there anything better than scouring the shelves for your new favorite read?
9. Decorate your residence hall room or apartment with plants! Purify the air and cultivate your green thumb!
10. Get involved with Sustainable Campus! No matter what you’re passionate about, there’s space for you to contribute your unique talents and interests to make our campus and world a better place. Check out programs and opportunities for involvement here.

Remember to be kind to the planet and yourself this semester!

FSU Sustainable Campus seeks to have our campus serve as a living model of sustainability, providing learning experiences that students, faculty and staff may develop, apply and practice at FSU and in their extended communities. Stay up to date with FSU Sustainable Campus and the programs on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Sign up for the newsletter here.