Environmental Science Degrees

Just because you’re going off to college and living in a dorm doesn’t mean you no longer have a carbon footprint. You may not be paying the electricity or water bills, but that shouldn’t stop you from conserving your energy, water and waste. Sure you’ll be living in a room that resembles a jail cell and is probably older than you, but there are several ways to live a stylish and environmentally-conscious college life in the dorms. Here are 10 eco-friendly dorm room tips:

• Plants
  
  What better way to go green than to have actual greenery in your room. Plants can bring a dorm room to life by adding color, natural scents and improving the air quality. Make it easy on yourself and get a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t need daily watering or sunlight to stay alive, such as a snake plant, pothos, English ivy and many others.
• Organic Bedding
  
  Organic bedding has all the aesthetics and soft goodness of regular sheets and comforters, but is free of icky pesticides and irritating chemicals. Organic bedding can be made from natural plants and fibers, like cotton, hemp, soy silk, bamboo and other materials. You can sleep soundly knowing that you’ve gone au naturel and helped the environment.
• Fluorescent Light Bulbs
  
  Fluorescent light bulbs are more environmentally friendly than their incandescent counterparts. Fluorescent bulbs use less energy and last 10 to 15 times longer than the average bulb, while giving off the same soft, warm light that’s perfect for studying under.
• Reusable Water Bottle
  
  Instead of buying a 24 pack of water bottles that will probably end up in the trash can, get a reusable water bottle that is BPA-free, easy to clean and stylish for toting around campus. If your dorm room tap water is less than stellar, use the water fountain or buy a refillable water jug and chill it for an ice cold refresher.
• Surge Protectors
  
  Surge protectors give you the convenience to plug in multiple devices at once, but they also help protect your electronics from voltage spikes. Surge protectors also allow you to control your energy use by simply hitting the off button on the control strip, which turns off all of the appliances when they aren’t being used.
• All-Natural Products
  
  From hand soap, disinfectant to laundry detergent, all-natural cleaning products are a safe and effective alternative to chemical-based cleansers. All-natural cleansers are non-toxic, eco-friendly and safe to breathe in because they’re derived from lemons, vinegar, cornstarch, baking soda and other safe ingredients.
• Combination Appliances
  
  Combination appliances, like a 3-in-1 microwave, refrigerator and freezer, are not only convenient space-savers, but they are also eco-friendly appliances designed to conserve electricity and reduce circuit overloads. Look for Energy Star qualified products to get the most energy efficient appliances.
• Recycling Box
  
  Instead of throwing away that empty Coke bottle or tossing your class notes, collect these goods in a cardboard box or another homemade container, and recycle them on campus or take them to the nearest recycling center. While you’re at it, get your dorm floor to recycle and spread the word around campus.
• Biodegradable Hangers
  
  Perfectly good hangers end up in landfills every day instead of being reused, donated or passed on to friends. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly hanger, try biodegradable cardboard hangers that can be recycled or bamboo hangers that use reclaimed materials and non-toxic products.
• Get Thrifty
  
  In keeping with your “reduce, reuse and recycle” motto, get your furniture, wall art and clothes from local thrift stores for an original look that’s all you. Shopping at thrift stores is cost-effective and eco-friendly because you are saving tons of money and reusing perfectly good items.

The Gulf of Mexico oil spill was the world’s largest accidental marine oil spill in history. Approximately 4.9 million barrels of oil were released into the Gulf from April 20th to July 15th, killing thousands of marine animals and severely damaging the Gulf’s fishing and tourism industries. BP is looking at an estimated fine of $5.4 billion or more if negligence led to the spill, but there is still a great deal of explaining and learning to do. While the event is fresh on our minds and deep in our hearts, we should take this horrible catastrophe and learn something positive from it now and forever. Here are the biggest lessons learned from the Gulf oil spill:

1. A move to alternative forms of energy is inevitable
   Alternative forms of energy are no longer a chic business venture or a catchy political slogan. Alternative forms of energy are an essential part of preventing the environmental devastation caused by the oil spill, and an inevitable consequence of the United States’ dependence on foreign countries to extract a limited resource. The question is not if we will move away from oil, but when, and the sooner the better.
2. The economy of the Gulf is fragile
   While Hurricane Katrina now seems a distant memory, the Gulf region is still feeling the effects of the devastation caused by the storm. The economy, while substantially rebuilt, is still inherently vulnerable to natural disasters and man-made catastrophes such as the Gulf oil spill. The area is also economically dependent on the oil industry. It’s important for the region to expand its interests, in order to shield itself from further disasters.
3. Corporations are convenient scapegoats
   It’s hard to remember a corporation that has been hated or vilified more than BP. Much of this anger and distrust is the product of reprehensible conduct and negligent management in normal operation and disaster response; however it can be argued that much of the criticism is undeserved. BP would not be attempting incredible feats of engineering or enjoying enormous profits, without the high demand and consumption of oil by the same Americans who are protesting BP. While BP may be a convenient scapegoat, we should spend less time blaming and more time learning as a whole, so that we can prevent another disaster like this.
4. The Government is still poorly prepared to deal with major catastrophes
   As with Katrina, the government has been criticized for its delayed response, poor management and lack of preparation concerning the Gulf oil disaster. While it is unreasonable to expect the Government to solve every problem, it’s clear that Americans turn to the Government during catastrophes and the government is often unprepared to deal with such disasters.
5. The average American takes a great deal for granted
   There was a clear disconnect during the Gulf oil spill. Many Americans expect their lives to be a certain way and have lost the knowledge of how such a lifestyle is attained. During the Gulf oil spill, Americans and, perhaps, the government seemed surprised that BP was attempting to drill in more than a mile of water. Many people fill up their gas tanks and expect gasoline to be there without question. Only when the system is disrupted do Americans actually care where something comes from or how it is created. As a whole, we need to take on more responsibility for our behavior, our consumption and our actions in order to prevent disasters such as the Gulf oil spill. Only when we are aware of the consequences of our way of life will we be able to properly address prevention.

Before you throw away that old pair of jeans or toss your plastic bags, consider the amount of crafts you can make out of these recyclable materials. Recycling used materials for crafts is not only kind on your wallet, but also kind to the earth and turns household clutter into art. Here are 15 crafts using recycled materials that you and the whole family can enjoy:

• Milk Carton Bird Feeder
  Feed your feathered friends with this recycled milk carton bird feeder that withstands rain, snow and shine.
• Bottle Cap Magnets
  Every time you pop a top, save the bottle cap to make decorative magnets for the fridge.
• Recycled Wall Art
  Save money on expensive wall art by using old calendar prints, magazine pictures, holiday cards or postcards and placing them inside a used frame to get that store-bought, vintage look for way less.
• T-shirt Pillow
  Turn your old t-shirts into fluffy bed pillows with this recyclable craft that will wow your friends.
• Fused Plastic Bag
  These ridiculously reusable bags will have you thinking plastic is the new leather.
• Mason Jar Soap Dispenser
  Washing your hands has never been cooler than to look down and know you made this lovely soap dispenser with nothing more than a mason jar and a pump.
• Newspaper Letter Holder
  Keep your letters, bills and catalogs organized in this ultra-smart newspaper letter holder.
• Tin Candles
  You are sure to impress your friends with these chic tea tin candles that make awesome gifts and decorations.
• Record Bowl
  If you’re not spinning your records, make bowls out of them with this oh-so cool craft that brings vinyl back.
• Paper Bag Placemat
  Go green with these simple paper bag placemats that are both practical and pretty.
• Cereal Box Magazine Holders
  Once you finish your Cheerios, turn this box into a handy magazine holder that can be personalized and decorated to your heart’s desire.
• Egg Carton-Ribbon Organizer
  Don’t get tied up separating your ribbons. Try this egg carton craft that organizes your ribbons and dispenses them one by one.
• Recycled Wax Crayons
  Make your broken crayons whole again with this colorful craft.
• Book Safe
  Hide everything from your valuables, jewelry to the remote in this do-it-yourself book safe that is read-iculously decorative.
• Mosaic Tile Trivet or Coasters
  Make the most of your broken tiles with this mosaic trivet and coaster masterpiece.

If you haven’t found a tasty food item that’s made from soy, then you haven’t been looking very hard. The bean is incredibly versatile – it can be created to resemble many different food-types, notably dairy and meat. But its biggest fans extol its health benefits, which have been well-documented. Studies have shown that soy contains antioxidants – daidzein and genistein – that have an anti-cancer effect. Additionally, it fights osteoporosis and enhances calcium retention. Whether you’re refining your diet or simply enjoy soy products, the food items listed below are excellent additions to your pantry or fridge.

1. Burgers
   Unlike regular burgers, soy burgers are low in calories and fat. And you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy a Boca Burger, which is perhaps the best-known of the veggie burger category because of its authentic meat-like taste. They’re easy to prepare; just take them out of your freezer and heat them up, and in minutes you’ll be ready to eat like a carnivore.
2. Sausages
   Looking to pig out on sausage without actually eating the pig? Soy sausage is another excellent food item for new vegetarians who are attempting to phase out meat in their diets. Italian sausages, kielbasas and beer brats made from soy can be enhanced with the additions of sauerkraut, vegetarian beans, barbecue sauce or a bun with ketchup and/or mustard.
3. Tempeh
   Most Westerners are unfamiliar with Tempeh – a food native to Indonesia that’s high in protein and appropriate to eat with a variety of foods. It’s composed of slightly-fermented soybeans that have been cooked, and it’s made into a patty. Sometimes Tempeh is combined with grains and seeds, giving it a unique flavor. It can be used as a meat substitute and a soup, salad or stir-fry add-on.
4. Tofu
   Tofu has been a staple of the Chinese diet for more than two millennia, and today, it’s a popular food item among Westerners. Made from soy milk, tofu’s best attribute is its ability to absorb the flavor of the foods with which it’s combined. There are numerous tofu recipes, including tofu rice pilaf, tofu sloppy Joes or lasagna.
5. Nuts
   Soy nuts are a tasty snack that can be made at home during a rainy day. After soaking in water for several hours, simply bake them for 30 to 50 minutes or stick them in the microwave for 10 to 15 minutes. They’re an excellent source of energy, so stock up on them and eat them when you’re on the go.
6. Soy Bars
   If you like granola bars, then you’ll enjoy soy bars. They come in a variety of flavors and include large quantities of protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber, amino acids and antioxidant isoflavones. It’s an excellent snack for health-conscious people who prefer to avoid fatty and salty foods in between meals.
7. Cheese
   Cheese lovers can enjoy the taste of regular cheese without the fat and cholesterol. At your local health food store, you’ll find varying types of soy cheese – like mozzarella, cheddar, American, parmesan, pepper jack and monetary jack – many of which possess the texture and melt-ability of regular cheese.
8. Soy (Milk) Shake
   Soy shakes are low in fat, high in taste and easy to make. For example, if you crave a strawberry shake, then simply combine two cups of silken tofu, two cups of fresh strawberries, a half-cup of ice, a half-cup of plain soy milk, two tablespoons of honey and two tablespoons of jam – and blend. You can also purchase readymade soy shakes from health food grocers.
9. Ice Cream
   Even if you’re on a dairy-free diet, you don’t have to sacrifice ice cream. Soy ice cream offers all of the flavor that traditional dairy-based ice cream offers, but with less saturated fat. There are a variety of brands that produce soy ice cream, so you can taste test until you find one that best resembles the real deal.
10. Yogurt
    Soy yogurt is abundant in grocery stores, offering a low-fat alternative to dairy-based yogurt. An added benefit of soy yogurt is the presence of lactobacteria, which promote the health of your digestive system and lower your chances of getting colon cancer. Its flavor and nutritional value can be enhanced with the addition of fresh fruit.

Going green has become all the rage in recent years and tree-huggers have been at the forefront of the movement. The term tree-hugger was originally coined during an anti-logging movement in which the people in protest would link their arms around a tree in order to preserve it. In recent years, it has become less of a pejorative, as self proclaimed tree-huggers have adopted the term, and thus have used it in the names of their organizations and green businesses. If you go to great lengths to preserve our environment, exhibiting some of the 10 characteristics, behaviors and practices listed below, then you might be a tree-hugger.

1. You know the intricate details of every green issue
   There isn’t a single environmental issue or piece of environmental legislation that has escaped your grasp. You know a little more than just, say, global warming is bad. You can describe the process and affects of ozone depletion, and recall the average volume per decade that the ozone layer has shrunk. You can name the sponsor and provide a summary of the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009.
2. You’re an active member of environmental protection organizations
   If you’ve joined or contributed to organizations like Greenpeace and the Sierra Club, then you’re a tree-hugger. You take an active role in the environmental protection of your community and beyond by protesting the destruction of forest land, planting trees where they previously have been leveled and educating children about the perils of abusing the environment.
3. You’ve boycotted businesses that have harmed the environment
   You will never buy gas from BP again. You haven’t purchased a ConAgra Foods product since the 2006 CERES Report awarded the company just four points out of 100 for its poor environmental practices. If you live in an energy deregulated state, you thoroughly research the environmental record of each company before coming to a decision on which to choose. By taking these actions, you ensure that your daily behavior doesn’t encourage mistreatment of the environment.
4. You keep it natural when it comes to food and clothing
   When you open your pantry or refrigerator, a wide array of organic food products stare back at you. You may or may not consume large amounts of granola, which may or may not be a Kashi product. Many tree huggers also happen to be vegans, so you probably don’t possess any food or household items made from animals. You aren’t a stranger to hemp, and wear clothes made from the fiber.
5. Your home is entirely eco-friendly
   Your home is equipped with all kinds of eco-friendly upgrades, like Energy Star approved appliances and light bulbs, low-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads and perhaps solar panels. You use your air conditioner and heater sparingly, and they’ve never been on full-blast. You ensure that your home doesn’t waste any energy, and its CO2 footprint is infant-sized.
6. Your trash can has never once held a glass, carbon, plastic or aluminum item
   You have four independent bins stationed in your kitchen, and each one holds nothing more than its designated material – glass, carbon, plastic or aluminum. You are 100 percent consistent when it comes to recycling items made from these materials, so absolutely no exceptions are made when guests are over. All of your friends know that when they’re in your home, they better put their waste in the appropriate bins- or else.
7. You recycle for other people
   You’ve encouraged your friends and family to recycle, and have even gone so far as to separate the trash in their trash cans and set up home recycling stations in their homes. When out and about, you stop to pick up recyclable materials in the street, and become incensed when people aren’t properly utilizing public recycling bins.
8. You own a hybrid vehicle (if you own a vehicle)
   If you own a vehicle, you own a hybrid vehicle. And it might be adorned with a variety of bumper stickers that advertise your tree-hugger-ish personal beliefs. The rear of your car tells people to “Think Green” and “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” It advertises your affiliation with the Green Party and the Sierra Club. In short, you fit the stereotype of hybrid drivers.
9. You shun energy hogs
   From SUV drivers to friends who run their air conditioners on full-blast, you can’t help but shun the energy hogs who seem to have little regard for the environment. Perhaps you’ve even lost friends or made enemies because of such lifestyle differences. You just can’t fathom their ignorance pertaining to such an important issue.
10. Earth Day is your favorite holiday
    You celebrate Earth Day to the fullest by spending the day planting trees – which reduces greenhouse gas emissions, of course – picking up litter, constructing birdhouses, teaching other people about the environment and possibly attending Earth Day fairs. It-s the perfect time to espouse your ideology, spreading the message of environmental responsibility and protection – things tree-huggers care about.