Eco-Dorm

NPR has a story here about colleges attempting to green up their dorms. I appreciate their effort, but I've always thought its more fun to do these things yourself.

So below are my tips on making your dorm room environmentally friendly.

Hey, if you don't care about the environment in college, when will you?

1. Buy all fluorescent light bulbs for your lamps. (12 Pack for less than $20)
   
2. Avoid using disposable plates, cups, and utensils. Non-disposable stuff is re-useable.
   
3. Buy recycled paper towels and toilet paper.
   
4. Use a surge protector for your computer, TV, etc. and turn it off when you aren't using these things. Leaving electronic equipment running eats a ton of energy.
5. Use natural clothing detergent when washing your clothes.
   
6. Bring cloth bags with you to the grocery store to avoid getting plastic bags which are made with petroleum.
   
7. Visit the farmer's market on Sunday to get local veggies and fruits rather than buying stuff flown half-way around the world to your grocery chain.
   
8. Don't take more food in the cafeteria then you plan to eat.
9. If you are going to paint your room, use natural organic paint. It comes in really cool colors.
   
10. Finally, don't go out and buy a ton of new junk you'll probably toss out at the end of the year anyways. Try using stuff your parents already have and aren't using. The dumpsters outside dorms fill-up with junk at the end of every school year.
    

Of course, always try to recycle. If your campus doesn't have a recycling program for its residents, set one up!