As a student at the University of Stirling, managing your finances can be a challenging task, especially when you’re also trying to minimise your environmental impact. However, living sustainably doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, by making a few simple changes to your daily habits, you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time.

We also offer plenty of information on our website to help students manage their finances, including information about living costs, banking and budgeting, fees and funding, and discretionary and assistance funds.

Now, let’s explore some practical tips to help you live more sustainably and save money as a student.

1. Eat more plants

One of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact and save money is to adopt a more plant-based diet. Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By cutting back on meat and dairy products, you can help minimise these negative impacts while also saving money on groceries. Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu are often cheaper than meat and are packed with essential nutrients. Try incorporating more plant-based meals into your weekly menu, such as veggie stir-fries, bean burritos, or lentil soups. Not only will you be doing your part for the planet, but you’ll also be nourishing your body with healthy, whole foods. We also have a wide variety of plant-based options you can choose from across our campus food facilities.

2. Shop second-hand

Fast fashion is a major contributor to environmental degradation, with millions of tonnes of clothing ending up in landfills each year. As a student at Stirling, you can help combat this issue by shopping second-hand and participating in clothing swaps. Stirling has a variety of charity shops, such as British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK, where you can find pre-loved clothing at a fraction of the cost of buying new. The Green & Blue Space in the Atrium also offers a wide range of second hand environmentally friendly items including clothes, homeware, and plastic-free toiletries. By extending the life of clothing and reducing demand for new garments, as well as reusing other items and reducing plastic – you can save money.

3. Invest in reusable products

Single-use plastics, such as water bottles, straws, and shopping bags, are a major source of waste and pollution. By investing in reusable alternatives, you can significantly reduce your plastic consumption and save money in the long run. Some simple swaps include:

• Carrying a reusable water bottle instead of buying disposable plastic ones. You can easily refill your bottle at the various water fountains around campus.
• Using a reusable coffee cup or thermos for your daily caffeine fix. We run a reward scheme and discount if you bring your own cup to purchase hot drinks from our food and drink facilities.
• Bringing your own reusable shopping bags when you visit the shops.
• Opting for reusable food storage containers instead of single-use plastic bags or wrap.

While these items may have a higher upfront cost, they will pay for themselves over time as you avoid the need to constantly repurchase disposable products.

4. Reduce your energy consumption

Energy consumption is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and can also take a toll on your wallet. As a student living in university accommodation, there are several simple ways you can reduce your energy usage and save money on your utility bills:

• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use, especially when you leave your room or flat.
• Use energy-efficient light bulbs, such as LEDs.
• Unplug appliances and chargers when not in use to avoid “vampire” energy drain.
• If you feel cold, put on a cosy jumper or use a blanket instead of turning up the heat.
• Take shorter showers and wash your clothes in colder water to reduce hot water usage.

By being mindful of your energy consumption and making small changes to your daily habits, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills. You can also read more about the work we are doing to reduce our carbon footprint on campus.

5. Use public transport

Transportation is another major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly when it comes to personal vehicles. As a student at Stirling, you can help reduce your transportation footprint and save money by using public transportation and bike-sharing schemes. the University of Stirling has regular Unilink buses that allow you to travel between campus and the city centre without the need for a car. You can also take advantage of the NextBike bike-sharing scheme, which has stations located throughout Stirling. Also, if you are a resident in Scotland under 22, you are entitled to free nationwide bus travel! By opting for these alternative modes of transportation, you can save money on petrol, parking, and vehicle maintenance costs while also reducing your carbon footprint and exploring the beautiful Scottish countryside. Have a look at our transportation information page to find out more.

Living sustainably as a student doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By making a few simple changes to your daily habits, such as adopting a plant-based diet, shopping second-hand, investing in reusable products, reducing your energy consumption, and using alternative modes of transportation, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact while also saving money. These small actions may seem insignificant on an individual level, but when adopted by a large number of students, they can have a profound impact on the planet and help create a more sustainable future for generations to come. So, take the first step and start incorporating these eco-friendly and budget-friendly tips into your life. Your wallet and the planet will thank you!