Growing up, students repeatedly learn about how they can better the environment by following the three r’s: reduce, reuse and recycle.

While these concepts are often boiled down to the same list of “to-dos,” the recent green and sustainability movements have introduced a wide variety of ways in which individuals can be more environmentally friendly.

When environmentalists talk about being green or sustainable, it is not always clear what these terms mean and how they help better our society.

Generally sustainability promotes using resources and treating the environment in ways that will prevent future generations from having to suffer health-wise or from a lack of resources.

Though it may seem overwhelming to think about how to solve all of the environmental concerns, the fight for sustainability can start with simple actions in a dorm or apartment on campus.

*Unplug appliances when not in use*

Recently the term “Vampire energy” has gained recognition for its effects on resident costs and energy waste. The term is applied specifically to appliances because while they are plugged in, they continue to drain energy from a residence whether they are in use or not.

The 2005 Residential Energy Consumption Survey collected data from 111.1 million homes and found that appliances and electronics made up 31 percent of the total energy used from these units.

Unplugging any unused appliances can substantially cut down on the amount of energy wasted from the environment. It may also help to decrease you electricity bill.

*Decrease use of disposable dishes and silverware*

In today’s society, people enjoy products that can accommodate the “on-the-go” mentality that we live by.

“I have a lot of friends who buy disposable forks and plates because, to them, it is quicker and easier than taking time to wash the dishes,” said Marika Nell, sophomore in Engineering and vice-chair of the Student Sustainability Committee.

Though this is a notion that many students follow, it also has negative effects on the environment.

According to Mara Eisenstein, director of Marketing and Special Projects for the Illinois Green Business Association, even if these items are recycled, the recycling process uses energy that would otherwise be conserved if individuals bought reusable dishes.

Nell and Eisenstein both suggest reducing consumption and finding ways to reuse materials before moving to recycling.

*Insulate your dorms and apartments*

Many university apartments or dorms have cracks somewhere inside them. These can be along windows, walls and even doors. These areas may seem small but every year they contribute to energy loss and waste – especially during the winter months.

Because heat from the apartment can escape through these cracks, students will often set the thermostat at a higher temperature than necessary.

“It is important to conserve this energy by finding ways to block these areas throughout the apartment,” said Bethany Cutts, assistant professor with the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. “To help, students should place large rolled up towels or store-bought draft stoppers at the base of every outside door during the winter months.”

*Clean green*

Most individuals do not think about how their cleaning supplies can effect the environment, but even these must be taken into consideration.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, many cleaning products are released in the environment through evaporation or being rinsed down the drain.

These products contain a number of chemicals that can pollute the water system and harm aquatic life and wildlife.

Eisenstein recommends that students buy supplies from “green” companies that pledge to withhold harmful chemicals from their products. These chemicals include petroleum, phosphates and chlorine bleach.

Students can also clean green by using household items such as baking soda, lemon juice and white vinegar, rather than buying chemical-filled cleaners.