Here are three simple ways students can help the planet: 1) Start a simple recycling center at home to recycle glass, plastic, aluminum, and newspapers. 2) Create a compost pile using food scraps like egg shells, coffee grounds, and fruit peels to reduce waste. 3) Get creative by making cards from reused materials, carrying reusable items like water bottles and silverware, and choosing more sustainable food options.

1. Going Green: Simple Ways for Students to Help the PlanetBy: Christine Scott

2. Here are a few simple and varied ideas to inspire our students to lighten their carbon foot print. We ought to be teaching our students to become students of the world. Let’s encourage sustainability for ourselves and our posterity. Go Green!!

3. Reduce, Reuse, RecycleStart a simple recycling center at your house.Recycle glass bottles, plastic bottles, aluminum cans and newspapers.

4. Start a Compost PileSome items that can be used to start your compost pile are often as easily accessible as your own garbage.Some examples of ideal items are: egg shells, coffee grinds, fruit rinds, veggie peels, paper napkins and spoiled produce.All you have to do is dig a hole in the yard, put your items to compost inside and wait.

5. Get CreativeMake your own cards and thank-you notesWrap presents in a creative manner: Use household items such as string, twine and brown paper bagsSave wrapping paper, tissue bags, bows and gift bags

6. ReusablesUse cloth towels rather than paper towelsCarry your own plastic silverware and tupperware to school/workCarry “green bags” to the grocery store Use old homework as scratch paper Print on both sides of paperCarry a reusable water bottle

7. Food ChoicesShop organicStop eating “fast food”Purchase local produceGo to farmer’s marketsPlant a garden

8. Miscellaneous IdeasConserve electricitySave water: turn off water while brushing your teeth, don’t run water continuously while washing dishesRide a bikeUse public transitPlant a tree

9. Good Luck and Go Green!