Eco Tips for Students
Go All the Way to Zero
Zero waste isn’t just about recycling, it’s about being conscious of your lifestyle and how it affects your health, your community and your environment. This full-circle approach to smarter consumption means that every step along the way makes a difference.
Read on to see how you can contribute to a greener, waste-free world and make an impact that lasts for generations. Be sure to visit the What is Zero Waste section of the Irvine website for more information.
Buy Green and Cast a Vote
Think about it, every time you spend a dollar you are casting a vote. 
A vote that helps a company stay in business. Consider what companies you’re “voting” for with every purchase you make.
What Makes A Product Green?
Sustainability: meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Green Product Standards
Car-less and Car-free
Irvine is a pedestrian and bike friendly community – for students, especially. If you can get by without owning a car, you can save money on gas, repairs, and overpriced student car insurance. If you do own a car, try to use it as little as you can and carpool with your friends whenever possible.
- Click here for the OCTA (Orange County Transit Authority) schedule
- Click here for UCI transit information to get around campus, including a schedule of their Express Shuttle
- Click here for a map of bike trails throughout Irvine
Eat Your Greens
Put down the fast food and visit these restaurants for some eco-friendly and yummy cuisine.
Mother’s Market & Kitchen
2963 Michelson Dr, Irvine
Organic To Go
2030 Main St, Irvine
Speak Up
Write or call companies whose practices you don’t agree with and let them know. Remember, as one of their “voters” they are interested in keeping you happy.
Stay Informed
Know what’s going on in the eco-community in order to be able to make informed decisions. Sign up for our e-newsletter or become a fan on Facebook.
Doing More with Less:
UCI offers classes such as Environmental Pollution and Remediation, through their Environmental Health, Science and Policy department. Visit the course listing for undergrad and grad students.
Set up message boards on your networking profiles to generate ideas from your friends on how to help your environment.
Attend or arrange your own clean-up events at school and in your neighborhood. Visit OC Watersheds for more information.
