Living sustainably doesn't have to be as daunting as remembering your grandma's birthday or trying to assemble that Swedish furniture set without instructions. In fact, there are plenty of surprising and even downright quirky ways for students to reduce their environmental footprint and live more sustainably without spending a penny. So, grab your reusable water bottle and let's dive into the world of eco-friendly living with these five hidden gems you never knew existed.

Tip 1 - Unleash the Magic of Composting: 

Did you know that food waste accounts for a significant portion of the waste in UK landfills? Instead of tossing your food scraps in the trash, why not start composting? Not only does composting reduce methane emissions from landfills, but it also creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Plus, watching your kitchen scraps transform into black gold is like witnessing a mini miracle right in your backyard.

Tip 2 - Harness the Sun's Energy with Solar Cooking:

Cooking with solar power may seem like a futuristic concept, but it's actually a simple and sustainable way to prepare meals. Solar cookers use sunlight to heat food, eliminating the need for fossil fuels or electricity. Whether you're camping in the great outdoors or simply enjoying a rare sunny day, harnessing the power of the sun for cooking can help you reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources and minimise your carbon footprint.

Tip 3 - Dive into the World of DIY Cleaning Products:

Commercial cleaning products often contain harmful chemicals that can pollute the air and waterways. Fortunately, you can create your own eco-friendly cleaning solutions using simple, natural ingredients. For example, white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are all effective cleaners that can tackle a variety of household messes without harming the environment. By making your own cleaning products, you not only reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals but also minimise the amount of plastic packaging that ends up in UK landfills. Plus, DIY cleaning solutions are often more affordable than their commercial counterparts, making them a win-win for both your wallet and the planet.

Tip 4 - Cultivate a Sustainable Wardrobe with Charity Shopping:

Fast fashion has a significant environmental impact, and none of us are exempt from its allure. However, one way to combat this is by embracing charity shopping and second-hand clothing. Not only does charity shopping allow you to find unique and affordable pieces for your wardrobe, but it also helps reduce the demand for new clothing production. By giving pre-loved garments a second life, you're diverting textiles from landfills and supporting a circular economy. At Redbird Apparel, we're passionate about sustainability, which is why we offer a range of college and university stash made from 100% recycled polyester. By choosing second-hand or sustainable clothing options, you can make a positive impact on the planet while still expressing your personal style.

Tip 5 - Get Creative with Upcycling Projects:

Upcycling is the process of transforming old or discarded materials into new, useful items, and it's a perfect activity for students looking to add a personal touch to their living spaces. From turning old t-shirts into trendy tote bags to repurposing glass jars as storage containers around your student accommodation, the possibilities are endless. Not only does upcycling help reduce waste by giving new life to old items, but it also encourages creativity and resourcefulness. By incorporating upcycled items into your daily life, you can reduce your environmental impact while adding a unique and personal touch to your student halls and your wardrobe.

At Redbird Apparel, we're committed to promoting sustainable living in all aspects of our lives. By embracing these lesser-known sustainable practices, we can make a positive impact on the planet while also enjoying the benefits of a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.