GREEN APARTMENT LIVING

Living green does not have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, certain aspects of living a life that is planet-friendly will actually save you money. You do not have to wait until you are established and living within a home. Instead, you can begin living green within your student apartment in Gainesville, FL.

CONSERVE ENERGY

Electricity is responsible for the consumption of many damaging fossil fuels. If you want to reduce the amount of energy consumed within your apartment, Gainesville students should unplug any electronics when they are not being used. Even when electronics are turned off, they continue to slowly use electricity. This can add up; therefore, preventing this use of energy will help save you money on your utilities and save the planet by burning fewer fossil fuels.

Creating moderate temperatures will also help to conserve energy. Raise your thermostat two degrees in the summer and lower it two degrees in the winter. If you dress appropriately for the weather, you will not feel a significant difference in the temperature, yet the environment and your utility bill will thank you.

TRANSPORTATION

Though cars are convenient, they require a lot of gas, especially when used multiple times a day. If possible, it is best to use alternative forms of transportation. Walking or riding your bicycle are preferable because not only are they clean forms of transit, but they also provide you with exercise. However, sometimes weather does not permit the use of these modes of transportation or you live too far from your destinations. Thankfully, Gainesville has an efficient bus system. The RTS bus system travels to all of the major apartments in Gainesville, schools and stores. While buses consume gasoline, because they are used by so many other students at once, they are preferable to individual cars.

CLEANING

Though you may be attempting to a do a good thing by keeping your UF housing clean and fresh, you may be simultaneously harming the environment by adding harsh chemicals. Instead, use cleaning products that are safe for the environment. You can find non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products at many mainstream grocery stores and almost any natural store. You also have the option of finding a recipe online and making your own cleaning products.

RECYCLING

One of the most well known methods of protecting the environment is to recycle. Ask your apartment complex about options for recycling that are provided. Minimize the amount of junk mail you receive by unsubscribing from companies online. You can also limit your mail by receiving bills and paying online, which makes paper copies unnecessary.

Taking advantage of some of these practices will greatly help the environment. There are many small tasks that are easy to complete, which may have a big impact. Even in student apartments, Gainesville FL residents can find ways to positively affect the Earth. Learning these tactics earlier will only improve your experience at The Standard at Gainesville.