The Green Review

Winter on campus usually brings the same rhythm every year, heavier jackets, warmer drinks, cozy study spaces, and a shift in daily routines. With everything feeling busier over the winter semester, sustainability might not always be at the front of a student’s mind. However, in many small and everyday actions, it continues to show up in how students live, study, and make choices on campus.

To better understand what sustainability looks from a student’s perspective, a short survey was shared asking: How do you live sustainably? The intention was not to look for perfect answers, but to learn how students make sustainable life decisions. While only a small number of responses have been received so far, the perspectives shared offer meaningful insights into how students approach sustainability in realistic and thoughtful ways. The survey was shared through the UNB Sustainability Instagram page to invite students to share their thoughts, and more responses will continue to shape this conversation.

Survey: How do you live sustainably

Student perspective on sustainability

As responses started coming in, it became clear that students think about sustainability in meaningful ways. While everyone had their own unique perspective, a common theme was that sustainability often comes down to everyday choices and personal responsibility.

A student from Civil Engineering shared sustainability as a way of giving back to nature and the community while being conscious of what we take from it. They spoke about the importance of starting manageable habits and gradually building more sustainable practices over time stating, “start from less, but start.” For them, sustainability is closely tied to responsibility and balance; recognizing that the environment supports us and in return we must protect it.

In addition, they also mentioned how learning sustainable practices now feels important as they prepare to enter a professional field, where long-term thinking and environmental responsibility play a key role. Their response reflects the idea that sustainability is not just about the present but thinking ahead and making choices that support future generations.

Another student, studying Psychology, focused on the practical side of sustainability and how it shows up in everyday routines. They shared using reusable items, such as porcelain plates instead of plastic or bringing food in reusable containers, has become an important habit for them. These small changes help reduce waste and limit the use of single-use plastics. Moreover, they also mentioned the value of reusing or donating items, such as textbooks, rather than letting them sit unused – a simple action that supports a more circular and mindful way of living.

This student highlighted the importance of making sustainability more visible on campus. They shared that they “see sustainability stands occasionally where students can shop for free” referring to our Free Store events. In addition, they would enjoy seeing these stands “at every corner” like Head Hall, Marshall d’Avray rather than in just one location. Making sustainable options easier to access, they noted, could help encourage more students to take part and make sustainability a more natural part of everyday campus life.

Overall, the responses shared so far show that sustainability does not have to be complicated or perfect. For those surveyed, it’s about being a little more aware of their choices and trying to do what they can within their daily routines. Whether that's reusing items, being more mindful of waste, or simply thinking differently about how we interact with our surroundings, these small actions tend to add up. As more students continue to share their thoughts, their conversation will continue to grow and reflect on more ways sustainability shows up in life.