Benefits of Living Sustainably

Learning to live sustainably is of immense importance, with the population rapidly increasing and the very present effects of climate change. As a student, you may not be able to afford an electric car however, there are many simple everyday practices every student can implement to live more sustainably. As a student, you already have an amazing opportunity to learn a lot; why not take further efforts to make university life more sustainable?

Reusable Bags

When you’re out shopping whether it be grocery or vintage, remember to bring your favourite tote bag or reusable bags instead of using single use plastic bags.

Shop Local

Make your student life more eco-friendly and economically friendly by shopping at local zero-waste stores, offering sustainable products. Bring your own jars and Tupperware to stock up on loose nuts and cereals at Rice Up Wholefood.

Located in central Southampton near our student accommodation, the store specialises in plastic free products, with refill stations also available for cleaning products as well as shampoo.

Flying Economy from Southampton

Opting for sustainable travel by choosing to walk and cycle or take public transport rather than driving, where possible, helping to reduce exhaust emissions. When it comes to being an international student, wherever home is, get there sustainably by flying economy or minimise flying. Choosing to fly only when its essential, opting for alternative travel options such as a boat or ferry, can reduce your carbon footprint.

Second Hand Shops

Shopping for a new outfit for your night out? One of the best ways you can help fight climate change is buying eco-friendly clothes. Thrift, vintage and charity shopping is a cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative to shopping fast-fashion and makes for building a unique wardrobe and personal style. Some of the best spots in Southampton can be found near the university campus including, Beatnik Emporium offering retro and vintage fashion!

Eat Locally in Southampton

Dining out at a local independent restaurant, café or verdure can cost less and within walking distance, minimises the need to take a care or public transport.

Local restaurants often use locally grown produce, meaning your food hasn’t travelled too far to reach you, meaning a reduced carbon footprint. Local businesses often employ sustainable practices to avoid food waste too, such as giving away food at the end of the day for cheap or even free.

If you are looking for a quality, local restaurant in Southampton, BayLeaf Kitchen brings traditional Indian cuisine with fresh, flavourful ingredients, easily accessible from our student accommodation, just a 15-minute walk.

Reusable Cups

The UK throws away around 2.5 billion disposable cups a year! Instead of contributing to that number, invest in a reusable cup or thermos to use over again. Many cafes also offer a discount on your favourite beverage with a reusable cup, including Room 2 and Avenue Café – popular student cafes in Southampton.

Go Green!

Whether it’s at home or on campus, use some of these simple ways to make your room greener.

Utilise natural light where possible, switch out your bulbs for energy savers and make sure you turn off the lights when you leave. You can also aim to be more conservative with water usage, by reducing the time spent in the shower, not leaving the tap running when brushing your teeth and opting for a washing up bowl instead or running the water.

Make sure you’re making the most of your recycling bins – separate your household waste from cardboard, plastic, glass and other recyclable materials. Make sure you’re popping them in the right bin to reduce contaminating with general waste.

Save paper and money by checking books out from the library or choosing to download digital versions of books or papers online.

You might even consider spreading the good green word by joining a local society or club, which aims to help more people live in an eco-friendlier way.

Discover our Southampton accommodation ideal for any sustainable student, offering a great environment for students with recycling facilities, bike storage and outdoor spaces.