By Bella Wright*
Graduation is right around the corner! While we celebrate fellow graduates, let’s keep in mind these tips to help sustain the Loveliest Village on the Plains!
Looking to jazz up your graduation photos? Embark on a fun D.I.Y craft to create your own confetti by hole-punching dried leaves or flower petals! Single-use plastic confetti contributes to the growing plastic pollution. Local wildlife, such as birds, may choke on or ingest these small pieces. Bubbles are also a fun alternative to bring for your photos. Auburn University Commencement will be providing a lite sign on the floor of the arena at graduation as well as four backdrops for pictures located at the meet up tent after each ceremony. Together, we can keep our campus lovely!
When planning your graduation celebration, consider implementing some sustainable event planning tips to save the planet and your wallet:
- Opt for virtual invitations instead of paper ones to reduce waste
- Pick a venue that is easily accessible by walking or public transportation to reduce carbon emissions
- Decorate using chalk boards & reusable banners to reduce plastic pollution from single-use decor such as balloons & streamers
- Support local & seasonal foods when selecting your food menu
- Use reusable cups, cutlery, & plates
- Bring your to-go containers for leftover food to reduce food waste
- Carpool to the ceremony & celebration- make memories while saving the planet and your wallet
When it comes to finding that perfect gift, hunt for sustainable options before heading online. Shop locally at one of Auburn’s many small businesses to support the local economy and community members. Also consider gifting unique, meaningful experiences such as National Parks passes, museum tickets, or live event tickets. Consult our Green Gift Giving blog for more ideas on sustainable gift giving.
Together, we can uphold an important piece of Auburn’s Mission: improving the lives of the people of Alabama, the nation, and the world through forward-thinking education, life-enhancing research and scholarship, and selfless service. Advance the wellbeing and quality of life of all people by protecting our shared home: Earth.
*Bella Wright is one of the Communications Specialists at the Office of Sustainability. She is a senior majoring in Social Work with a minor in Sociology.
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