Student Guide

Reduce energy and electricity use

Turn off lights, power down, and unplug electronics when not in use and especially during break.

Need a light bulb? The REP program offers FREE LEDs which contain no mercury, are 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs, and can last up to 20 years. Contact your REP or visit the Dorm Crew Office.

Wash clothes in cold

Washing in cold or "bright colors" uses 90% less energy than washing in hot and it preserves the life of your clothes.

Take shorter showers

By reducing your shower time you can help save water and the energy used to heat the water. Here are 5 ways to measure a 5 minute shower.

Reuse, compost, and recycle

If you have a reusable item you no longer need bring it to the Freecycle shelf in your House or Dorm (ask you REP if you can't find it).

All freshman dorm rooms are equipped with compost and recycling bins. Learn what you can compost and what you can recycle at Harvard.

You can also help tackle food waste by practicing mindfulness when selecting food in the dining halls. Wasting food wastes the energy and water used in producing and transporting it.

Walk, bike, or opt for public transit

Bicycle storage and racks can be found across campus. Harvard also sponsors 12 Hubway bike share stations (and offers a discount), and the Harvard Shuttle is tracked in real time and takes you around campus.

Report drips and window leaks

Submit maintenance request on the Yard Ops website to make your room more comfortable and efficient.

Use a reusable mug or bottle

Get discounts on coffee at participating locations; and use filtered water stations across campus to refill your bottle.

Follow the Healthy Eating Plate

Designed by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the Healthy Eating Plate helps you create healthy, balanced, and flavorful meals. Check out these plant strong dining hall hacks for inspiration.

Shop the Harvard Farmers' Market on the Plaza on Tuesdays from June through November/

Be well

Learn about meditation and stress reduction, and practice at the Harvard Wellness Center.

Get outside

Harvard may be located in a city, but it is also part of a vibrant and thriving ecosystem. Take the T to visit the Arnold Arboretum or join a student group like the Harvard Naturalists Club or the Harvard Outing Club.