Green Living Guide

Green Living Guide

A comprehensive guide that will help readers live a more sustainable life at East Tennessee State University and beyond.

Living sustainably entails taking the holistic view of our actions and their consequences. A commitment to sustainability promotes the well‐being of people and campuses over the long term.

Be a part of the university’s sustainability movement! We hope the guide below will provide you with some practical tips for experimenting and pursuing a more sustainable lifestyle while here on campus, and ideally beyond ETSU’s gates!   

  • Before arriving at ETSU
    • Move in mindfully knowing what you need or dont

    • Use what you already have
    • Shop secondhand
    • Think about move-out during move-in (fewer items)
    • Check out the sustainability map on our website to get to know your sustainable campus

  • While at ETSU
    • Conserve energy by reducing use
    • Be thrifty
    • Be water wise
    • Reduce trash by buying reusable stuffs like water bottles etc
    • Plant and purify the air.
  • Waste Minimization
    • Buy in bulk
    • Bring your own bags when you shop
    • Use a reusable cup

    • Recycle what you can. Find all information about recycling at ETSU on Recycle
  • Food
    • Choose plant-based options at campus dining locations
    • Choose locally sourced options when available
    • Take only food you know you want to eat at dining halls to reduce food waste
    • Reduce packaging waste by using washable and reusable to-go container
  • Transportation




    • Carpool with friends
    • Walk or bike when appropriate
    • Avoid one stop trips
    • Utilize public transportation when possible






  • Academics
    • ETSU sustainability department is working on promoting engagement in sustainability-related courses across the curriculum.
    • Also, through partnerships, fellowships and research, ETSU has numerous opportunities to engage with sustainability through academics.
  • Get involved
    • Be part of our community garden initiative
    • Volunteer with the EcoNuts or the Department of Sustainability
    • Abide by the green living guide
    • Participate in the yearly Earth Month
    • Volunteer at the end of the semester for Move-Out Cleanout
    • Donate to the ETSU Free Store
  • After Graduation
    • Align your career with your sustainability values
    • Continue to minimize food waste
    • Furnish your next home with items you already own or secondhand items
    • Continue advocating for sustainability
    • Give back

                      

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