We could dress the next six generations with all the clothes that have already been produced, so shop second-hand. This doesn’t just apply to clothes – before buying anything, see if there is a second-hand alternative in local charity shops or online. Second hand retailers online don’t just offer overpriced ‘unbranded vintage Y2K’ tops which turn out to be Shein, there are some great deals if you look just below the surface. Browse the other sections the next time you need a baking tray or a lamp. Not only do you get a good deal, but often a unique piece that you couldn’t find in Eldon Square. Newcastle is home to so many charity shops so make a day out of it. Gather your friends or take a solo trip (to avoid someone finding a gem before you) and work through the shops on Clayton Street or Shields Road.
We could dress the next six generations with all the clothes that have already been produced, so shop second-hand.
At the risk of sounding like a nagging parent, turning off lights, radiators and plugs is one of the easiest and most impactful habits you can adopt. At this time of year, it is tempting to leave on lights around the house to evade the early onset darkness and the loneliness that accompanies it, but not only will this waste energy, but waste your money long term. Though you may be living comfortably now with a ‘bills included student package’ in a few years this will not be the case and getting into the habit now will save the environment and your bank account some damage.
...choosing not to overconsume food products that end up going to waste is a good way to reduce damage to the environment.
As you make the switch from living with family to cooking for yourself, it can be hard knowing how much to buy. Being conscious of food waste is important and choosing not to overconsume food products that end up going to waste is a good way to reduce damage to the environment. There are websites and accounts which give specific food guides for students. I have recently followed @emsbalance’s ‘Babe on a Budget’ series on Instagram, where she buys a weekly shop for under £35 with 5 recipes to feed one person for a week with plenty of frozen leftovers. I have found this has reduced my food waste as I am no longer left with a miscellaneous slimy lettuce at the end of the week.
These are just the beginning to living a more sustainable life, and I encourage you to explore other ways to become eco-conscious. However, in a busy and overwhelming university term, these are little ways we can make our world feel a little more loved.