Being green is not hard or a chore
Blog by Greg, student ambassador (QMUL, UK)
In a world dictated by energy usage, where electricity is readily available to power our phones, televisions and laptops, it may seem easy to fall victim to over consumption. However, the people working for the Student Switch Off Campaign provide valuable advice that enables students to be more energy efficient and help make university campuses more eco-friendly.
Throughout my time at Queen Mary, the campaign has offered incentives that range from the delectable Ben and Jerry’s ice-cream to, for the more competitive, statistics charting how the different halls are doing in relationship to one another. This has had a tremendous impact on my approach to energy saving: rather than being a slouch, I feel a sense of responsibility to my hall and I have noticed an increase in my desires to save energy.
My change in mentality was sustained by the wonderful tips emailed to me on a regular basis. I no longer overfill a kettle; I check to see whether I have turned all plugs off when I leave my room; I even put a lid over my saucepan whilst cooking. All these things may seem to be rooted in common sense, but it is shocking to think how many times we neglect to do them. Thanks to the brilliant Student Switch Off team I am more mindful; the campaign is a kind and regular reminder to students everywhere that being green is not hard or a chore. Also, an occasional tub of Ben and Jerry’s cookie dough ice cream is greatly appreciated.
