Environmentally-friendly initiatives are a very important investment in the future of the earth and should be embraced by all. This is because climate change and its antecedent effects have heightened the immediacy for sustainability. Since it is the business of all, let’s consider the benefits of green colleges to African students.
1. Sustainable Living
Green colleges are big on sustainable living so many facilities incorporate natural lighting and improved air quality. This goal is achieved because electricity, water and energy consumption are properly managed and regulated. Some green colleges also have “living” roofs which absorb rainwater and provide insulation. The aim is to provide a clean, healthy and eco-friendly environment for students and other members of the school community.
2. Organic dietary options
Eco-friendly colleges are always conscious of the fact that health is wealth. Thus, they offer their students fresh cuisine, from campus farms or markets, where possible. This attempt at sustainable living provides varied nutrition options to students.
It reduces emissions caused by food transportation and offers students great opportunities to learn. Learn about urban growing, organic agriculture, and sustainable food systems. Similarly, compost kitchen food waste is used to fertilize the campus farms while biodegradable papers and packaging are equally used.
3. Using electronics instead of paper
Given the fact that we live in a digital era, green colleges have computers, electronic libraries, and online testing programs. Students can also take notes using smart notebooks instead of paper notebooks. There are also digital books which further reduce the need for paper. This is more beneficial to the environment.
4. Commuting
Students are encouraged to walk or bike within and around campus. These are easy yet effective exercises which encourage sustainability in the environment. Furthermore, public transport is more commonly used than private cars thus reducing carbon emissions. This is one of the benefits of green colleges to African students.
5. Recycling
This is one of the major benefits of green colleges to African students. The purchase and use of recyclable products on campus are strongly encouraged. Therefore, trash bins are situated at different locations on campus. There are also recycling programs which are a major step towards ensuring sustainability.