I love this article explaining why distance learning is better for the environment. For one thing, university campuses use a lot of energy and resources, and even those schools with lots of green spaces aren’t always all that green. The article brings up the matter of electricity use, paper use, and the commute to school, which all add up to one heck of a carbon footprint.
I can’t help but agree with the points raised by the article; I’m a big fan of not leaving the comforts of my home if it can be helped, after all. But what if you want to study in an entirely different city, or country, and immerse yourself in that place’s culture? Moving around and seeing new places does help expand your mind and the range of your experiences. Earning your degree online, even if it’s from a university located abroad, doesn’t seem to have the same appeal as actually being in that school. Distance learning might not be for everyone, but if you just want to earn your degree and are fine without interacting with your professors and classmate, then this is something you should consider.
If you really want to go to a traditional campus, well, just try to be as green as you can! For starters, print your reports on both sides of the paper. Take public transportation, walk, bike, or carpool to school. Reduce energy use in your lodgings. There are many ways for you to make some really important changes.
