Students from around the world calculated their class mean and standard deviations for their footprints and posted them on our world map.
Do you see differences across the globe? If so, why do you think those differences exist?
Did you use the calculator to try to reduce your footprint down to the average from a citizen of another country? What changes would you have to make to lower your footprint in this way? Are you going to try and take some of these actions in your daily life?
Student Footprints >
How to Reduce a Carbon Footprint in College
Reducing a carbon footprint is something we don't always think about and it definitely isn't something we take into consideration on a daily basis. Many posts on here are from either high school or college students and I just decided to post a few different ways that a high school or college student can easily do to reduce their carbon footprint!
Some of the many ways can include:
Walking! Walk to and from your class regardless of how far it is from the next. It's also a great way to get your exercise!
Switch to a laptop: Instead of using a desktop computer in the lab or library (unless it is your only option), try using a laptop instead! Either your own or maybe even ask to borrow a friend's.
Purchase things only when you NEED them: I know it's hard, but try to reduce your purchases on frivolous things and focus only on what you need! I.E. recycled pencils, paper.
Source: https://onetreeplanted.org/blogs/news/1 … at-college
Hey Laurah!
I completely agree with you and the ways students could reduce their carbon footprint. I also liked the point about college students because I feel as if there is a difference in how college students could reduce their carbon footprints and high school students.
A major difference in college is that most people won't have a car in college. I really like your idea of walking to class but sometimes, it is too far to walk and you will be late to class. If this is the case, try biking to class. Bicycles are a great form of exercise and allows you to get to class quicker and more efficiently.
Another difference is some people could have travelled across the country to attend college. This greatly increases their carbon footprint. One way to reduce the number of flights you take is only go back home when it is necessary or during long vacations. Otherwise, you could just stay at the college and hang out with friends.
Finally, in college, most people eat out everyday. Although it may seem natural to eat out, try and cook in your dorm and use fresh produce and i ngredients. Not only will this help you stay healthy, but also saves you money. If you live with roommates, you could set up a schedule for who cooks.
These are just some ideas I have regarding the college vs. high school student carboon footprint. If you have any questions or more ideas, I would love to read your reply!
You have a good point most people today are dependent on cars but we can just walk to places that don't take very long to get to. And also walking is benefiting to a person because you are getting exercising and save money on gas.
I agree but I think what is important is for people to understand the difference between needs and wants. Walking to class is not only better for the environment, but for your health.