Trying to be sustainable as a college student is like doing yoga on a moving treadmill: noble, but not practical.
The idea and thought to be sustainably successful is there, but there’s a limit in its execution that is out of our control. Growing up, my mom kept a compost container on our kitchen counter, and our recycling bin was near full every week. When I grew out of clothes, we donated them to Goodwill; when I wanted new clothes, we went to The Salvation Army. I never thought much of it when I was younger, but now that I’m living on my own, I can’t help but wonder how I could live sustainably while living on campus.
Emerson is full of students showing off the sustainable aesthetic: canvas tote bags, reusable Owala water bottles, and thrifted outfits. Sure, these are sustainable choices, but they lack full practice. You start with one bag, then buy another from the farmers market, then the school gives you one as part of orientation. Now you have seven, and still forget them on your trip to Trader Joe’s, so you end up buying another. The cycle continues.
Fast fashion is the enemy of sustainability, especially in a world of broke college students wanting the perfect outfit on a liberal arts campus. Yet, the only true runway is the landfill, as trends don’t last long and clothes fall apart quickly. When buying fast fashion to achieve “the look,” sustainability gets lost—especially when you’re broke and stressed.
I may not be a slow fashion saint, but I am trying to break up with cheap polyester one impulse buy at a time.
Emerson does a great job in its attempts to be sustainable, providing locally sourced foods as well as compost and recycling bins in all dining options. Five campus buildings have been LEED certified—including Emerson Los Angeles—which decreases carbon emissions by 80% where implemented. The college has also been recognized as the largest green power user in the NEWMAC conference.
In the midst of juggling classes, social life, and existential dread, it’s okay if the environment is not our top priority. However, it should not be forgotten. Awareness and advocacy are important as well; this could include talking with your roommates on the importance of recycling in your dorm, or asking if they want your old clothes before donating them. Additionally, surfing online for outfit inspiration, using platforms like TikTok or Pinterest, helps to see how other people are shopping while keeping sustainability in mind. Sustainability doesn’t have to be performative—it is more about being conscious in this chaotic life.
You might be wondering, “so why should I care?” The environment is a global issue and affects human health daily. As previously stated, being a college student, the environment is not at the forefront of our minds. But making small efforts each day could help tremendously in the future. Whether it be buying secondhand or starting project pan, there are a multitude of solutions that can be added to everyone’s routine.
If you are looking for more ways to be sustainable, Emerson’s Teach-In on Sustainability is happening Oct. 15-17, and I hope you think twice before picking up a free tote bag, especially if you already have one.
