Going green is usually associated with things that are expensive (i.e., Whole Foods, Teslas, etc.) but not today!
As a law student, you’ll always be looking for an easy way to save some money. So, why not save some money while doing some good for Mother Earth?
Here are some easy ways to save money and go green throughout law school (and life).
Turn Off Your Lights
One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is by being mindful of your energy consumption. Turning the lights off when you leave the room saves you money on your electric bill and makes your household a little greener.
Keep an eye out for appliances that use up energy even when they’re switched off. These are called “vampire appliances” because they suck up power even when they’re not being used. Unplugging power strips and any appliances that you’re not using (Apple TV, Xbox, etc.) can save you a lot of money in the long run and helps lessen your carbon footprint.
Take Notes & Outline on Your Laptop
There’s a lot of writing that happens in law school. And I mean a lot. Try making a habit of taking notes and making outlines on your laptop versus a notebook.
If you start taking your notes on your laptop at the beginning of 1L, it’ll come naturally throughout law school. Plus, you won’t find yourself making frequent trips to the office supply store (or orders on Amazon) for notebooks and pens — saving you a little cash on the way.
Cook at Home & Pack Your Lunch
You don’t have to tell me how easy it is to blow chunks of cash on an afternoon lunch. Trust me, it happens to the best of us. Making your meals at home saves you a lot of money and uses fewer resources than dining out or by buying pre-made food.
If you’re planning on packing your lunch for class (which you should), don’t brown bag it. Invest in a quality, eco-friendly, lunch bag that keeps your food insulated and yummy all day.
Ride Your Bike to Class
Not everyone has the luxury of being able to ride their bike to school, but if you do, take advantage of it.
I probably don’t have to explain how negative cars are for the environment, so I won’t. If you have the option to walk, bike, longboard, or even swim to class, that’s what you should opt for. Okay, maybe not swim, but you know what I mean.
It’s better for your health, the environment, and your wallet.
Buy or Rent Used Textbooks
Law school textbooks are pricey, especially if you’re buying a few at a time. There are tons of online options that allow you to buy or rent used textbooks from people across the country. Save some trees and a few bucks by using used textbooks throughout law school.
Also, always opt for digital study supplements versus print if you have the option.
Eat Less Meat
Cutting down on the amount of meat you consume can have a huge impact. In fact, meat production results in more carbon emissions than any other protein.
You don’t have to go full on vegan to help the environment. Eating more vegetarian meals can help reduce CO2 emissions, reduce methane/nitrous oxide production and save large amounts of water. Not to mention the fact that meat can be expensive. Going vegetarian a few nights a week can help the world and your pockets.
Invest in a Good Water Bottle & Thermos
What’s an easy way to save on $3-$5 bottles of water? Invest in a BPA-free water bottle. It really is that simple.
An estimated 80 percent of water bottles don’t get recycled. That’s a lot of plastic waste! By using a reusable water bottle or thermos, you’ll help lessen the amount of plastic in the world, save money and stay hydrated throughout your day.
