Going Green: Simple Ways for Students to Help the Planet

By: Christine Scott

Here are a few simple and varied ideas to inspire our students to lighten their carbon foot print. We ought to be teaching our students to become students of the world. Let’s encourage sustainability for ourselves and our posterity. Go Green!!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Start a simple recycling center at your house.

• Recycle glass bottles, plastic bottles, aluminum cans and newspapers.

Start a Compost Pile

• Some items that can be used to start your compost pile are often as easily accessible as your own garbage.

• Some examples of ideal items are: egg shells, coffee grinds, fruit rinds, veggie peels, paper napkins and spoiled produce.

• All you have to do is dig a hole in the yard, put your items to compost inside and wait.

Get Creative

• Make your own cards and thank-you notes

• Wrap presents in a creative manner: Use household items such as string, twine and brown paper bags

• Save wrapping paper, tissue bags, bows and gift bags

Reusables• Use cloth towels rather than paper towels• Carry your own plastic silverware and

tupperware to school/work• Carry “green bags” to the grocery store • Use old homework as scratch paper • Print on both sides of paper• Carry a reusable water bottle

Food Choices

• Shop organic• Stop eating “fast food”• Purchase local produce• Go to farmer’s markets• Plant a garden

Miscellaneous Ideas

• Conserve electricity• Save water: turn off water while brushing your

teeth, don’t run water continuously while washing dishes

• Ride a bike• Use public transit• Plant a tree

Good Luck and Go Green!