HAMKO’s Meeri Järvi, responsible for Sustainable Student Union, has gathered five tips on how you can promote sustainability as a student!
A new module has kicked off, and the rhythm of student life is becoming familiar. Daily routines are settling in, and you’re no longer questioning every decision you make. Here’s a reminder to sometimes reflect on the choices you make in everyday life. After all, a small action you do daily adds up to over 300 times a year. That’s more than enough to make a difference!
Here are a few tips for integrating sustainability into your student life:
1. From Old to New – Beautiful and Fun School Supplies
Studying is much more enjoyable when you have the right materials and tools. It’s even better if these items bring you joy! While you can buy all sorts of things from the store, there’s something special about items customized by you or a friend.
Writing things down helps you remember them better. So, grab an old, half-used notebook, and decorate it in your style, whether with magazine clippings, drawings, printed images, or anything else you can think of.
Pens are always needed, and you can often get them for free at events and booths. Check around at home and gather a variety of pens.
If you have several notebooks with only a few blank pages left, tear them out and combine them to create a new notebook. Bind the pages with thread or staples, and don’t forget to decorate the cover!
Many of us collected stickers as kids, which are probably now lying in a drawer somewhere. Pick your favorite ones and use them to create a unique cover for your laptop.
2. Remember Breaks
Studying is much better when you take breaks. Go for a short walk or roll your shoulders and move your body between tasks. Naps are also an excellent way to rest—though maybe skip them during lectures!
Taking days off is also essential. When you spend time doing things that relax and refresh you, returning to studies becomes easier. Block off free days in your calendar to do whatever feels good at the moment.
3. Carpooling and Walking
When commuting to campus, use public transport or carpool with friends as much as you can. Traveling together is also a great way to start or end the school day, talking about non-school topics and providing mutual support with any concerns.
Walking or biking to campus is also a great option. Moving your body before a long day increases alertness, making it easier to stay focused during lectures. At the end of the day, it’s a nice moment to clear your head before starting your free time, and you can enjoy nature along the way, maybe even discover a new path.
4. Food Choices Matter
School days can be long, so always carry a snack to grab when hunger strikes. It helps you stay focused and supports your well-being. Good snacks for school include for example snack bars, raisins, nuts, and smoothies.
Consider your choices in the school cafeteria and canteen. Opt for locally produced, plant-based, or surplus food. Even if you’re not vegetarian, consider having a plant-based meal once a week. Try new foods, too—you might be pleasantly surprised!
Another tip is to buy leftover food from the cafeteria to take home. This reduces waste, saves cooking time, and provides an affordable meal at home.
5. Help Friends and Remember to Share
Help a friend whenever possible; a small gesture from you can brighten someone’s entire day. Offer help and remember to accept it when others offer it to you. Whether it’s sharing a tip, carrying something, or assisting with an assignment, it makes a difference.
Many events give away cool patches, not all of which make it onto overalls. If you have unused patches, consider trading with friends instead of throwing them away. This way, you might get a patch you like better and make a friend happy in the process.
You don’t need to buy everything; borrowing often works fine. Borrow from friends or check out items from the library. Did you know that you can borrow exercise equipment from public libraries for free? Or if something is only needed occasionally, consider sharing the cost with a group of friends. Flea markets are also a great place to find secondhand items if you do need to buy something for yourself.
Remember to make your study sessions fun! 😊