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Are you an eco-warrior while your roommates are anything but?
If so, you're not alone.
Trying to maintain eco-friendly behaviors while living with others with different beliefs or practices can be challenging.
Here are some ways to meet this challenge!
Human Impact
There are over 8 billion people in the world.
Some impacts of there being so many humans include, but are not limited to:
This can be overwhelming, but there are things we can do to help.
You already know that you can have a positive impact. But some people, like your roommates, may think that their actions don't matter.
In the words of President John F. Kennedy:
Did you know?
Where Can We Start?
You and your roommates can make changes in your everyday lives to reduce your environmental footprints without upending norms or breaking the bank.
Best Practices:
Some things you and your roommates can do right away:
Eat less meat
Use a recycling bin
Unplug devices when not in use
Shut lights off when you leave the room
Shut off the water when not in use
Wash clothes using cold water when possible
Carpool
That wasn't so bad, was it?
Product Swaps:
Try these eco-friendly alternatives:
Swap This:
Paper towels
Incandescent bulbs
Plastic water bottles and bags
Plastic straws and cutlery
Disposable plates
Dryer sheets
Plastic wrap
Plastic tupperware
For This:
Reusable washcloth or bamboo towels
LED bulbs
Reusable bottles and bags
Metal or bamboo straws and cutlery
Bamboo plates
Wood dryer balls
Linen or beeswax covers
Glass tupperware
What Are The Benefits?
It's possible your roommates might not realize the benefits of these practices or swaps. Here are a few talking points:
Changing to LED bulbs and unplugging devices can lower your electricity bill.
Carpooling can help you save money on gas.
Eating more fruits and vegetables can help you feel better, physically and mentally.
And the biggest benefit of them all:
Helping to save the planet!
How Can I Talk To Them About This?
You've got the reasoning. You've got best practices and swaps you can make. Now it's time to have the talk.
Some Tips:
Plan your conversation in advance.
Discuss the pros of what you are all currently doing.
Discuss areas of improvement and provide alternatives.
Discuss reasons why changes should be made and the benefits.
Tailor your approach to each roommate.
Compromise.
You can also share this Byte with them to help them learn more.
Let's Practice!
Your roommate Ted always leaves the lights on when they leave the room. Which response might work the best to encourage them to change their behavior?
1 — "Ted, you're killing the planet by having the lights on all the time. You seriously need to stop."
2 — Roll your eyes and sigh heavily whenever they leave the room.
3 — "Hey Ted, when we leave the lights on our electric bill skyrockets. What might we be able to do instead?"
4 — Follow them around and shut the lights off for them.
Quiz
Which response might work the best to encourage Ted to change their behavior?
Ted might not realize that their behavior has a negative impact on the environment, so we want to approach this in a way that is supportive and educational. Getting Ted involved in coming up with a solution can also make him more committed!
Take Action
Ready to speak to your roommates about reducing your environmental footprint? Try the following:
This Byte has been authored by
Stephanie Scimeca
Educator