In my recent Student’s Corner article, I talked about how some sustainable efforts or decisions have been reversed due to the health risk they may represent (e.g. reusing plates at the dining hall, water fountains, etc…). While this is temporary, we can still take steps to remain both eco-friendly and health-conscious. Here are a few tips on reducing your environmental impact in this new era:
Reusable silverware
Rather than eating with single-use, plastic silverware at the dining halls, you can use your own reusable utensils. This comes at no contamination risk since you are the only one using it! This is an effortless way to reduce your carbon footprint. If you don’t have one yet, you can now purchase a set at Hillside market.
Cloth face masks
For the general public, the CDC recommends the use of cloth face masks. From an environmental perspective, it is much better to reuse an effective cloth mask rather than disposable surgical masks. It is important to note that this advice does NOT apply to all situations, especially when interacting with confirmed cases of coronavirus.
Reusable grocery bags
Since last semester, the University has been providing paper bags at the markets. Although paper bags decompose much faster than plastic bags when discarded, their sheer use is still an environmental concern. To reduce waste and collectively save trees, you can bring your own reusable bag to Hillside market or The Pit.
Written by Kelly Jean, Class of 2021