As I write this article, there are currently more than seven billion people on earth. Every second, the human population continues to grow. As the population rises, more resources are used to sustain new life. Sustainability has always been important, but we are just now noticing this needs to change.
Last month, I collected responses to understand how the student population here at CSUMB would respond to a sustainability pledge. I set up a table in front of the student center and asked participants to make a pledge about the sustainable actions they will take on during this semester and in the future. Here are the results that were gathered out of the 64 students who participated in the survey.
Resolution | Tally
Use reusable water bottle/cup | 22
Promote sustainability | 19
Cut down on single-use items | 12
Unplug when not in use | 6
Use less water | 5
Implementing these small changes into your everyday life may seem like nothing, but slowly we can begin to change the world. Thanks to campus efforts, changes are starting to become more prominent. The Dining Commons has created a program to eliminate single-use items for student organizations and clubs called Otterware. They offer plates, cups and utensils to be rented out for FREE! That’s right, you heard me. All you have to do is head into the DC and ask to check Otterware. All items must be returned within a 24-hour time frame.
Starbucks and Verve are also offering a discount on customers who bring their reusable cups for their beverages. By bringing your own water bottle with you, it’s possible to save up to $260 per year by switching. Little things such as unplugging the charger when you are done can save energy and resources for the future. The energy costs of plugged-in appliances can really add up and unplugging these devices can save you up to $100 to $200 annually.
When we hear the word “sustainability,” we tend to think of renewable fuel sources, reducing carbon emissions, protecting environments and a way of keeping the delicate ecosystems of our planet in balance. In short, sustainability looks to preserve our natural environment, human and ecological health, while driving innovation and not compromising our way of life.
