ARE YOU READY TO CHANGE THE WORLD?
Living a sustainable life isn’t just about saving the planet, it’s about saving your hard-earned cash too!
As a student in beautiful Aotearoa, you are surrounded by breathtaking nature that deserves our protection.
From the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps to our pristine coastlines, NOW IS THE TIME to take action.
But where do you even start?
Does it feel overwhelming?
Don’t worry!
We’ve refreshed our top tips to help you live a FABULOUS, eco-friendly life without breaking the bank.
Let’s dive into these four fresh and easy ways to make a MASSIVE difference today!
1. Master The Art Of The Freezer (And Save Your Kai!)
Did you know that the average New Zealand household wastes over $640 worth of food every single year?
That is CRAZY!
Think of all the coffee, textbooks, or weekend trips you could buy with that money instead.
Your freezer is your absolute BEST FRIEND when it comes to sustainability.
It’s like a time machine for your food!
Got leftovers from that big pasta bake?
FREEZE THEM!
Found a great deal on bulk veggies at the market?
CHOP AND FREEZE THEM!
By utilizing your freezer, you are directly reducing the amount of waste heading to the landfill.
Plus, you’ll always have a “ready-to-go” meal for those late-night study sessions.
Want more tips on saving money on your food habits?
Check out our guide to saving on food and coffee here!
2. Grow Your Own Fresh Flavours
You don’t need a massive backyard to be a gardener!
Whether you’re in a crowded hall of residence or a shared flat, you can grow your own food.
Start small with a windowsill herb garden.
Fresh basil, mint, or parsley can transform a boring bowl of 2-minute noodles into a GOURMET feast!
It’s incredibly satisfying to watch something grow from a tiny seed into something you can actually eat.
It’s also a great way to reconnect with nature during a stressful exam season.
If you have a balcony, try growing cherry tomatoes or spinach in pots.
It’s fresh, it’s healthy, and it’s FREE food!
Your finances, and the bees, will thank you.
3. Shop Responsibly (And Bulk Is Better!)
Convenience is tempting, but the plastic waste that comes with it is definitely NOT fabulous.
It’s time to rethink how you shop!
Have you heard of GoodFor?
They are leaders in the zero-waste movement in New Zealand, with stores designed to make sustainable shopping EASY.
You simply bring your own jars or containers, fill them up with exactly what you need, and pay by weight.
No plastic bags.
No unnecessary packaging.
Just pure, delicious ingredients!
You can explore their amazing range of bulk foods and eco-friendly products right here at GoodFor.
And don’t forget about the power of the “Thrift & Gift” lifestyle!
Before you buy something brand new, check out your local op shops or online marketplaces.
Thrifting is like a treasure hunt, you can find unique, high-quality pieces for a fraction of the price.
By choosing second-hand, you are keeping items out of the landfill and saying NO to fast fashion.
That is what we call a WIN-WIN!
4. Green Your Routine & Keep Learning
Sustainability is a journey, not a destination.
There are so many small, everyday habits you can start RIGHT NOW to lower your footprint.
Have you tried the “one-song shower”?
Pick your favorite 4-minute track and try to finish your shower before the music ends!
It’s a fun way to save heaps of water and energy.
Also, make sure you are turning off lights and unplugging chargers when you leave your room.
Those “phantom” energy leaks can really add up on your power bill!
Want to take your knowledge to the next level?
The Sustainable Living Programme is an incredible resource for Kiwis.
It’s run by The Sustainable Living Education Trust and offers practical, real-world advice on everything from composting to eco-friendly DIY cleaning products.
Explore their resources here and become a sustainability superstar!
YOUR GLOBAL KEY TO SUSTAINABLE SAVINGS
Being a student is the perfect time to build these cherished habits.
And guess what?
Your ISIC is here to help you every step of the way!
Whether you’re looking for discounts on eco-friendly travel, outdoor gear, or educational resources, your digital card is your ticket to EXCLUSIVE DEALS.
Using public transport instead of a car?
Learn how to explore New Zealand on a budget and see how your student status can help you travel greener!
Grab your digital app and discover thousands of opportunities to save while you protect the planet.
NOW IS THE TIME to join our community of over 4.5 million students worldwide who are making a difference.
Are you ready to soak in the fresh air and live your best, most sustainable life?
Simply submit your application, grab your ISIC card, and let’s start this journey together!
STAY BOLD. STAY GREEN. STAY SAVVY!
