EvCC Sustainability

Did you know, it is estimated that styrofoam takes more than 500 years to decompose? Styrofoam has been around since 1941 – but most people are unaware of the harmful effects this petroleum-based product has on our population and our planet. How can a product that is 95% air create such a detriment to people and our planet? 

Styrofoam is made from a product called polystyrene, which is a petroleum-based form of plastic. Styrofoam is used in a variety of ways; from food packaging to packaging fragile products. A 2014 National Toxicological Program report on carcinogens classified styrofoam as a product which is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen – and has been linked to occurrences of leukemia and lymphoma cancer.

Over 5 billion pounds of styrofoam ends up in our landfills and waterways each year.

The world produces more than 14 million tons of styrofoam each year.

Americans alone, throw away around 25 billion styrofoam cups annually.

25-35% of all landfill waste is from styrofoam products.

40% of all styrofoam produced is used for food storage.

Styrofoam that sits in landfills releases methane gases that have over 20 times the ozone-destroying potency as CO2 emissions.

Styrofoam breaks down into smaller particles that marine animals can easily mistake for food.

Styrene, a component of polystyrene, is a harmful chemical that can leach into food and drink.

Less than 1% of styrofoam is recycled.

Global Goodness:

Simply say “no” to products packaged in styrofoam.

The majority of eco-friendly companies have chosen not to use styrofoam in their packaging.  

Purchase a reusable travel cup. Stainless steel or glass cups are a great alternative to to-go cups. 

If eating out, take your own glassware – or simply request a piece of aluminum foil instead of a styrofoam box.  

Planet Protector:

Buy Used. Need a new tv or computer? Look online, or at a used goods store to see if you can find the model you’re looking for. You will save the pesky packaging – and most likely a few dollars.  

In 2021, Washington State passed a new law (S.B. 5022) to reduce plastic waste and strengthen markets for recycled plastic. The policy bans the use of StyrofoamTM packaging in mid-2023, and StyrofoamTM food serviceware like takeout containers and foam cups in mid-2024. 

Bring your used batteries, printer and toner cartridges and compact fluorescent lights to one of the following locations across campus:

• Liberty Hall (LBH): 1st floor next to the North entrance doors, across from the Fitness Center.
• Gray Wolf Hall (GWH): 1st and 2nd floors next to the bathrooms.
• Glacier Hall (GLA): 1st floor Reception 101 next to the door.
• Shuksan Hall (SHK): Main Entrance on top of the EvCC clipper box on the right.
• Parks Student Union (PSU): 2nd floor next to the ATM near the bookstore.
• Whitehorse Hall (WHI): Next to the staircase by the Main Entrance.
• Olympus Hall (OLY): 2nd floor hallway next to copier.

Please remember to limit your deposit of CFL bulbs to 10 per day and make sure it’s free from plastic bags, ziplocks or cardboard boxes.

Learn more about EvCC Sustainability!  www.everettcc.edu/green

Mariya Zelenskyy – Media and Outreach Coordinator  sustainability@everettcc.edu

Modern light bulbs have a longer life span than ever. Eventually though, they need to be replaced. This is where it gets tricky, because different types of light bulbs require different types of disposal.

How to Dispose of Incandescent Light Bulbs

Incandescent Light Bulbs are the easiest to dispose because they can be thrown in the household trash. In most cases, the amount of metal and glass in incandescent light bulbs is too small and complicated to recover by recycling. However, check local sources to see if your recycling center accepts incandescent lightbulbs.

If the bulb is broken, wrap the pieces securely in heavy paper such as newsprint, so that glass shards don’t cut through the garbage bag. This makes garbage pickup safer for both you and the waste collector. 

Incandescent bulbs can be upcycled, or used for another project. Research online for safe ways to prep incandescent bulbs for crafts. Then have fun transforming old bulbs into new decor.

How to Dispose of Halogen Bulbs

Halogen Bulbs can be thrown away safely in the household trash. They pose little environmental threat but are difficult to recycle. Halogen bulbs are made from thicker glass than incandescent bulbs, so they won’t break as easily. However, it is still wise to wrap a halogen bulb before throwing it away. Place the spent bulb in the packaging the new bulb comes in and then toss the entire thing. If you are intent on recycling, check your local recycling center to see if they accept halogen bulbs. 

How to Dispose of CFL Bulbs

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) are a popular bulb style. CFL use less energy than incandescent bulbs and are available in various shapes. However, these bulbs should never be thrown away in household trash. CFL bulbs contain mercury, which is toxic to humans and pets. Even though most bulbs contain only about 4 milligrams, CFL bulbs thrown into a landfill can leak toxins into groundwater and taint the drinking water supply in the local area. Proper light bulb disposal is one small way to support the long-term health of your community.

There are several retailers who accept intact and undamaged CFL bulbs for recycling. There are also a few online services that allow you to mail in bulbs to be recycled.

If a CFL bulb breaks inside your home, clean it up immediately using these tips:

• Get everyone, including pets, out of the room. 
• Open the windows, turn off the HVAC system, and close the door if possible. 
• Allow the room to air out for at least 10 minutes, then follow EPA guidelines for cleanup. 

How to Dispose of LED Bulbs

Many people throw away LED light bulbs, but they should be recycled. LEDs use tiny microchips to conduct electrical current. These include trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead and arsenic. Some communities have recycling collections for LED bulbs to try to prevent them from ending up in a landfill.

It is always a good idea to see what options exist for LED recycling rather than to outright trash them. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency publishes a list of places that recycle light bulbs. Also check with The Home Depot in your area to see if they recycle LED light bulbs. 

How to Dispose of Fluorescent Tubes

Like CFLs , CFLs contain mercury. The glass in the tube is very fragile. They are not permitted to be thrown away in regular trash or put out curbside for collection as they are considered to be hazardous waste. Some local recycling programs have special recycling protocols for these tubes. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency publishes a list of places that recycle these light bulbs. 

The main problem with disposing light bulbs is that the rules and options vary widely, even across a single region. Always check with your local waste management authorities to find out the guidelines for recycling light bulbs, or what light bulb disposal options are available in your community. They will have the most up-to-date recycling information for your region. 

To find LightRecycle Washington Collection Site near you click here:

Collection Site Locator

Bring your used batteries, printer and toner cartridges and compact fluorescent lights to one of the following locations across campus:

• Liberty Hall (LBH): 1st floor next to the North entrance doors, across from the Fitness Center.
• Gray Wolf Hall (GWH): 1st and 2nd floors next to the bathrooms.
• Glacier Hall (GLA): 1st floor Reception 101 next to the door.
• Shuksan Hall (SHK): Main Entrance on top of the EvCC clipper box on the right.
• Parks Student Union (PSU): 2nd floor next to the ATM near the bookstore.
• Whitehorse Hall (WHI): Next to the staircase by the Main Entrance.
• Olympus Hall (OLY): 2nd floor hallway next to copier.

Please remember to limit your deposit of CFL bulbs to 10 per day and make sure it’s free from plastic bags, ziplocks or cardboard boxes.

Styrofoam Recycling Event! 

Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024

Parking Lot F 10am-2pm 

EvCC Students for Enviromental Action (SEA) Club and Sustainability Department invites you to be an environmental hero! Bring clean styrofoam, packing peanuts in bags or boxes, bubble wrap and plastic film to be recycled–for FREE! If you are bringing styrofoam, please consider bringing a donation for the Marysville Food Bank of non-perishable food or monetary donations. We hope to collect as much styrofoam as possible; help us spread the word to your family, neighbors, and friends. 

See a list of acceptable items.https://www.everettcc.edu/calendar/2022/04/styrofoam-recycling-event

Learn more about EvCC Sustainability!  www.everettcc.edu/green

Mariya Zelenskyy – Media and Outreach Coordinator  sustainability@everettcc.edu

Join EarthCorps and the Port of Everett as we continue to work in the Union Slough natural area on the Snohomish River. Union Slough was created by breaching a dike in the Snohomish River estuary in 2001, restoring tidal flow to a farming field and creating about 8 acres of marsh and mudflat.  An additional 4.6 acres were added to the site by another dike breach in 2005. Plants were put in the ground in 2001 and the natural vegetation has been returning ever since, but there are still some aggressive weeds that we could use your help with!

Meeting Location:

Just north of Everett, off the east side of Hwy 529 at 40th Pl. NE

Saturday, October 12th: 

10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Number of volunteer positions available: 25

Registration is required. We will teach you everything you need to know about tool use, safety, forest health, and the importance of the work you will be doing. No experience necessary, just come ready to learn something new! 

For your safety and comfort please bring:

• Clothing that can get dirty (because it will!)
• Long pants and long sleeves (helps protect against prickly plants)
• Sturdy shoes that can handle some mud (closed toed shoes are required)
• Rain gear and warm layers -OR- sun protection (check the weather!)
• Sack lunch and snacks (to refuel)
• Full water bottle (we will have a jug on-site for re-fills)

What will volunteers be doing at the event?

While the exact tasks can vary, our projects focus on improving the forests and parks in our local cities. Healthy and thriving forests are vital to our community because they absorb and filter rain water, produce clean oxygen, provide living spaces for wildlife, and create a place for people to connect with the outdoors.

In order to help create healthy forests, the work can include:

• Removing weeds
• Maintaining areas where these weeds have been removed (weeding or spreading mulch)
• Planting trees and shrubs during the rainy season (often ~Oct.-Feb.)

Youth Policy

Youth under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All volunteers between the ages of 14 and 17 that are not with a parent or guardian must submit a digital Youth Waiver before the day of the event. 

The digital waiver process is first initiated when the youth participant registers online. After the youth participant enters parent/guardien details, the digital waiver will be sent to the parent/guardian for two part authentication. 

Sign Up here ! 

Hot water and snacks for volunteers will be provided !

If you have any questions Please email GABI ESPARZA 

Community & Volunteer Senior Manager 

 gabi@earthcorps.org 

More info and sign up here:https://www.earthcorps.org/volunteer/event/a0EUh000001sioHMAQ/

Bring your used batteries, printer and toner cartridges and compact fluorescent lights to one of the following locations across campus:

• Liberty Hall (LBH): 1st floor next to the North entrance doors, across from the Fitness Center.
• Gray Wolf Hall (GWH): 1st and 2nd floors next to the bathrooms.
• Glacier Hall (GLA): 1st floor Reception 101 next to the door.
• Shuksan Hall (SHK): Main Entrance on top of the EvCC clipper box on the right.
• Parks Student Union (PSU): 2nd floor next to the ATM near the bookstore.
• Whitehorse Hall (WHI): Next to the staircase by the Main Entrance.
• Olympus Hall (OLY): 2nd floor hallway next to copier.

Please make sure it’s free from plastic bags, ziplock or cardboard boxes. 

Batteries are manufactured using different mixtures of chemical elements designed to meet customers’ power and performance needs. Batteries can contain metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel and silver, which can pose a threat to human health or the environment when improperly managed at the end of their service life. 

Once a battery is no longer useful, the type and chemistry of the battery determines which of the various waste management options to use. It is important to manage batteries correctly according to their type because some batteries can cause a risk to safety and health if mismanaged at the end of their lives. Batteries can have enough energy to injure or start fires even when used and when they appear to be discharged. For safety, remember that not all batteries are removable or serviceable by the user—heed battery and product markings regarding safety and use for all types of batteries.

Battery types are identified by marking and labeling, not by the battery’s shape or the color of the label.

Some batteries may also contain materials such as cobalt, lithium and graphite that are considered critical minerals by the United States Geological Survey. 

Certain batteries should NOT go in household garbage or recycling bins. This page can inform you on how to manage these batteries safely. Waste batteries can always be recycledExit EPA’s website or taken to household hazardous waste collection pointsExit EPA’s website.

To prevent fires from lithium-ion batteries, tape battery terminals and/or place batteries in separate plastic bags and never put these batteries in household garbage or recycling bins.

To Find information about the types of batteries used in households and how to manage them when they are no longer needed click here:

https://www.epa.gov/recycle/used-household-batteries

To Find a Recycling Location Near You click here:

Earth911 Exit EPA’s website

Call2RecycleExit EPA’s website

Styrofoam Recycling Event! 

Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024

Parking Lot F 10am-2pm 

EvCC Students for Enviromental Action (SEA) Club and Sustainability Department invites you to be an environmental hero! Bring clean styrofoam, packing peanuts in bags or boxes, bubble wrap and plastic film to be recycled–for FREE! If you are bringing styrofoam, please consider bringing a donation for the Marysville Food Bank of non-perishable food or monetary donations. We hope to collect as much styrofoam as possible; help us spread the word to your family, neighbors, and friends. 

See a list of acceptable items.https://www.everettcc.edu/calendar/2022/04/styrofoam-recycling-event

Learn more about EvCC Sustainability www.everettcc.edu/green

ReplyForward

Everett CC has

many ways to support staff and students in getting to and from campus in sustainable ways.

Due to the rate of emissions that are produced by each and every vehicle on the road, students and staff are encouraged to carpool or ride the bus when possible. 

Carpool:

Cut costs, avoid parking hassles and help preserve our environment by sharing a ride to campus.

Cost

$10.00 + $4.50 processing fee (non-refundable) + tax (9.9%) = $15.94 per quarter

How To Apply

Each individual applicant must have classes the same day/time starting between 7-9 a.m. that meet Monday-Thursday. ie: MATH 079  MTWTh 8:50am-9:50am 

To apply for a carpool parking permit, download and fill out the Carpool Parking Permit Application form 

To fill out electronically, please download the file then open it using Adobe Acrobat DC or a similar program that will allow you to save it. Otherwise, you may print it, fill it out, then scan it. Once completed, email oasecurity@everettcc.edu with the following:

Completed Carpool Parking Permit Application

Copies of each student’s class schedule for the desired quarter

Copies of picture ID for verification (EvCC ID is okay)

We will review your application to see if you qualify for a carpool parking permit. If you are approved, you will need to pay the Cashiers Office, then use your receipt to pick up your pass from the Security Office.

Carpool Rules

Carpools must consist of two or more EvCC staff or registered students.

Each carpooler and their vehicle must be registered with Security.

Whichever vehicle is used for carpooling must have the carpool pass displayed hanging from the rear view mirror or placed on the driver-side dashboard.

Vehicles parked with carpool permits before 10:00 am are allowed only in Lot C, Lot N (only in designated carpool spaces) and lot K.

If carpool spaces are full or carpool pass is lost/stolen/tossed, please adhere to the EvCC parking regulations.

At least two registered carpool staff members or students must be together in the vehicle when they park.

Commute Trip Reduction

Everett Community College is committed to Commute Trip Reduction to benefit the environment, the health of the citizens of our community, and reduce the number of vehicles traveling the roadways.  We encourage students and employees to utilize alternative transportation.

Bus and Transit Information: 

Ride the bus to EvCC! Everett Community College’s main campus is located across the street from the Everett Transit Center’s North Everett Transit Center/College Station.

Everett Transit  and Community Transit 

bus schedules are available throughout the campus.

Commute Trip Reduction

Everett Community College is committed to Commute Trip Reduction to benefit the environment, the health of the citizens of our community, and reduce the number of vehicles traveling the roadways. We encourage students and employees to utilize alternative transportation. There are many options available to reach Everett Community College by bus.

On-line bus trip planning is available online:

Everett Transit bus routes, schedules, and fare information 

Community Transit Trip Planner 

King County Metro Trip Planner 

Staff Bus Pass – Available 

Staff Orca bus pass agreements are available on the intranet under eforms. Once the agreement is completed please take the form to the cashier’s to remit payment and obtain your bus pass.

Student Bus Pass

ORCA (One Regional Card for All) student bus passes will be available for winter quarter Jan 2. Quantities are limited. 

To get started on a student ORCA bus pass, the Cashiers Office will need a completed Student Orca Bus Pass Agreement, 

Once the form is completed please take the form to the cashier’s to remit payment and obtain your bus pass.

For more information, please contact the Cashier Office. 

Passes are $50 per quarter and good only during the quarter issued. Passes expire at the end of each quarter and are not valid during school breaks.

Use your ORCA student bus pass for: Regular bus services on Community Transit and Everett Transit.

Replacement ORCA student bus pass cost per quarter is $25. 

Styrofoam Recycling Event! 

Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024

Parking Lot F 10am-2pm 

EvCC Students for Enviromental Action (SEA) Club and Sustainability Department invites you to be an environmental hero! Bring clean styrofoam, packing peanuts in bags or boxes, bubble wrap and plastic film to be recycled–for FREE! If you are bringing styrofoam, please consider bringing a donation for the Marysville Food Bank of non-perishable food or monetary donations. We hope to collect as much styrofoam as possible; help us spread the word to your family, neighbors, and friends. 

See a list of acceptable items.https://www.everettcc.edu/calendar/2022/04/styrofoam-recycling-event

Learn more about EvCC Sustainability www.everettcc.edu/green

Wednesday, October 16th, 2024
Parking Lot F 10am-2pm

EvCC Students for Enviromental Action (SEA) Club and Sustainability Department invites you to be an environmental hero! Bring clean styrofoam, packing peanuts in bags or boxes, bubble wrap and plastic film to be recycled–for FREE! If you are bringing styrofoam, please consider bringing a donation for the Marysville Food Bank of non-perishable food or monetary donations. We hope to collect as much styrofoam as possible; help us spread the word to your family, neighbors, and friends.

Wednesday, October 16th, 2024
Parking Lot F 10am-2pm
FREE
What We Accept
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) Guidelines

Your material must be:

• Clean
• Dry
• Free of all tape and any labels so it does not contaminate the recycle process.
• Please bag your peanuts separately for drop off
• No contaminated material accepted.
• We will accept any amount, large or small. Sorry, no hot tub covers, please.

To Identify Your Foam:

• Look for the #6 or EPS inside the recycle symbol
• Bend the material – it should break and snap with loose beads

Polystyrene Examples:

Clean Styrofoam
Clean Takeout
Clean Polyethylene
Clean Shipping Coolers
Clean Styrofoam Sheets
Other Materials We Accept:

Packing Peanuts (in bags or boxes please)
Clear bubble wrap
Clear plastic wrapping (Clean & dry material only)
What We Do Not Accept:
Spray-in Foam
Insta-pak Foam
Grey Insta-pak Foam
Foil-covered Foam
Pink or Blue Insulation Foam (XPS)
Hot Tub Covers
More Info
SEA Club is all about promoting environmental awareness and having fun while learning about current sustainability initiatives. For more information about this event please contact Laura Wild, Club Advisor at lwild@everettcc.edu

Recycling on campus is simple with EvCC’s comprehensive co-mingled recycling program! Blue and green recycling containers are located next to trash containers in all campus buildings. Use these containers as a single source for recycling for:

• Paper
• Plastic
• Aluminum
• Tin
• Glass

View practices for recycling from our partners at Waste Management

Cartridge, RAI, Toner, Small Electronics, Battery and Bulb Disposal

Bring your used batteries, printer and toner cartridges and compact fluorescent lights to one of the following locations across campus:

• Liberty Hall (LBH): 1st floor next to the North entrance doors, across from the Fitness Center.
• Gray Wolf Hall (GWH): 1st and 2nd floors next to the bathrooms.
• Glacier Hall (GLA): 1st floor Reception 101 next to the door.
• Shuksan Hall (SHK): Main Entrance on top of the EvCC clipper box on the right.
• Parks Student Union (PSU): 2nd floor next to the ATM near the bookstore.
• Whitehorse Hall (WHI): Next to the staircase by the Main Entrance.
• Olympus Hall (OLY): 2nd floor hallway next to copier.

Please remember to limit your deposit of CFL bulbs to 10 per day.

Electronics Recycling

In partnership with 3-R Technology, EvCC provides opportunities for electronics recycling. Data is guaranteed to be wiped from all devices. Check out our blog each spring for dates! 

Items that are typically accepted include: 

• TVs & Monitors
• Computers & Laptops
• Servers & Networking Equipment
• All Printers, Fax Machines, Copiers, and Scanners
• Audiovisual Equipment (DVD players/ VHS/Stereos)
• UPS battery backups
• Telecom Equipment & Cell Phones
• DVDs, and CDs
• Keyboards and Mice
• Small parts, peripherals, cables, etc.
• Microwaves

About 3-R Technology- “As an R2:2013 and Naid AAA Certified organization, we are constantly improving our operation and capabilities. From our expert logistics team, to our customized erp and refurbishment systems, to our innovative remarketing and customer service programs, we deliver increasing value to our customers, while finding ways tominimize cost 70% of the projects entrusted to us are a positive return or net zero to our customers. Why pay more for less when you don’t have to?”

For more information on accepted items, click here.

Labor Day weekend is a time to celebrate the achievements of American workers and enjoy the last days of summer. But it can also be a time to show some love for the environment and make more sustainable choices. 

Here are five ways to have an eco-friendly Labor Day weekend that are fun, easy, and good for the planet. 

The best general strategy for this Labor Day is: Consume less.

Use less fuel, use less electricity, buy fewer products, and properly dispose of the products you do use. It won’t take away from the fun and excitement of your day off, nor will it take much additional time to accomplish. You’ll feel good about your celebration and ready to head into fall with your best eco-friendly foot forward.

If you’re going to fire up the grill and have a few hamburgers and hot dogs, consider your fuel choices.

Charcoal: Although many love the taste of food cooked over a charcoal grill, cooking with charcoal releases volatile organic compounds, trace metals, and particulates that contribute to air pollution.

Gas: It may not seem like an eco-responsible option, but natural gas and propaneboth produce far fewer emissions than charcoal. Here’s a nice comparison of the benefits and disadvantages of gas and propane grills.

Pellets: Pellet grills are growing in popularity and provide a greener option to charcoal. They’re fueled by wood pellets and might actually be healthier for you than other grilling methods.

Electric: If your electricity comes from renewable energy resources (like solar and wind), an electric grill may be the most environmentally friendly way to cook your outdoor meal.

Solar: The sun can cook a delicious meal. Check out Earth911’s recent review of solar ovens.

 Explore nature trails and hikes

If you’re looking for eco-friendly Labor Day activities, what better way to celebrate than immersing yourself in the beauty of nature? Lace up your hiking boots, pack a reusable water bottle, and head to a local trail or park. Whether walking, hiking or simply enjoying a stroll, connecting with nature is good for your overall health and reminds you of the importance of preserving our natural world.

Recycle (and make it easy for your guests to recycle). One of the easiest ways to have an eco-friendly Labor Day weekend is to recycle as much as possible. Whether hosting a party or attending one, ensure clearly labeled bins for recycling materials like paper, plastic, metal, and glass. You can also encourage your guests to bring their reusable cups and containers to reduce waste. And don’t forget to compost any food scraps or organic materials that can be fertilized for your garden.

Happy Labor Day!

Learn more about EvCC Sustainability!  www.everettcc.edu/green

Mariya Zelenskyy – Media and Outreach Coordinator  sustainability@everettcc.edu

Sustainability department team and our friends from WSU went on a Beacon Food Forest tour. We all really enjoyed it and thought the Beacon Food Forest is a great place. Many thanks to Priya for leading us on this tour and answering our questions!

Below are some information about Beacon Food Forest: 

“Community grows here

We cultivate a community dedicated to building equitable food systems for all people, and stewarding our environment for the benefit of all species.

We believe in Caring for the Earth.

We steward our local ecosystem by building healthy soil and increasing the diversity of plants and habitat.

We believe in Caring for the People.

We bring people together to grow and share food, learn from each other, and know their neighbors.

We work to create a Fair Share for all.

We are on land stolen from the Duwamish, Suquamish, Muckleshoot, and other peoples, stewards and co-creators of abundance with the land since time immemorial. We work to dismantle an unjust food system rooted in white supremacy and conquest by nurturing its replacement, already alive and ready to grow. Through open harvest and collaboration within and among communities, we work to create a fair share for all”.

Beacon Food Forest is maintained by volunteers and managed by the Food Forest Collective, a 501c[3] tax-exempt organization, with support from the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods P-Patch Community Gardening Program.

The P-Patch Community Gardening Program is made up of community managed open spaces throughout Seattle where gardeners use small plots of land to grow organic food, flowers, and herbs. All P-Patch gardens are open to the public to enjoy and are utilized as communal spaces, restorative spaces, learning and idea incubators, and venues for community gatherings.

To learn more about Beacon Food Forest

Summer is officially in full swing! The days are long and sunny, leaving many of us itching for a vacation. With growing environmental concerns, eco-friendly travel options are becoming more popular. Traveling sustainably allows you to enjoy all the comforts of a vacation while reducing your environmental impact. This guide will give you all the green travel tips you need to plan your eco-conscious summer travel!

Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

Take Public Transportation: Opting for public transportation like buses or trains can help reduce the carbon footprint of your travel. Amtrak is a great option, offering scenic routes throughout the United States. When you arrive at your destination, consider taking local public transportation, walking, or biking to get around if possible. If you need to rent a car, renting a hybrid or electric vehicle can be a great option!

Pack Light and Intentionally: Packing light can help reduce the fuel consumption of your car if you are driving to your destination, not to mention it’s always easier to maneuver fewer bags! When choosing what to pack, consider bringing things like reusable water bottles and shopping bags to reduce your use of single-use plastics.

Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations: When looking at hotels, consider options that are LEEDor Green Key certified. These certifications mean your accommodation is committed to prioritizing energy efficiency and other sustainability practices. Camping is another great eco-friendly option, just remember to follow leave-no-trace principles!

Support Local and Sustainable Businesses:When dining on vacation, consider restaurants that prioritize local ingredients or pay a visit to the farmers market to support local farmers. If you are coming home with souvenirs, skip the airport souvenir shop and opt for unique items from local artisans instead!

Consider Eco-Friendly Destinations: If you don’t have a destination in mind yet, consider looking into places that are committed to sustainability or prioritize ecotourism. Exploring national parks, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, or backpacking are all great environmentally conscious activities to do during your summer travels

By choosing eco-friendly travel options, you can ensure a memorable summer trip while exploring scenic new destinations and helping keep the Earth clean for others to enjoy!

Learn more about EvCC Sustainability!  www.everettcc.edu/green

Mariya Zelenskyy – Media and Outreach Coordinator  sustainability@everettcc.edu