Sustainable living tips for studying in the US: A guide for international students in 2025

Studying abroad in the US is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it comes with challenges—especially in terms of financial and environmental sustainability. Many international students struggle with high living costs while also trying to minimise their carbon footprint. By adopting sustainable living practices, students can effectively manage expenses and contribute to a greener planet.

This guide provides practical sustainability tips for international students, along with information on how to finance their education through options such as study abroad loans from lenders like Prodigy Finance.

1. Choose cost-efficient housing

Look for affordable apartments or dorms. Opting for shared housing helps split costs and reduces overall energy consumption per person.

2. Opt for second-hand furniture & essentials

Instead of buying new items, explore:

• Thrift stores for furniture

• Student groups for giveaways

• Online marketplaces for second-hand essentials

3. Use public transport or cycling

Most US cities offer student discounts on buses, trains, and metro passes. Cycling is also a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative.

4. Carpooling and ride-sharing

For areas where public transport is limited, use ride-sharing apps like UberPool or university carpooling groups.

5. Walk for short distances

Instead of using a car for short trips, opt for walking. It’s free, sustainable, and good for your health.

6. Cook at home & meal prep

Eating out frequently contributes to a higher carbon footprint due to factors like food transportation, excessive packaging waste, and increased energy consumption in restaurants. Additionally, many takeout meals rely on single-use plastics and non-recyclable materials, further harming the environment. Instead:

• Buy groceries in bulk

• Use reusable containers

• Plan weekly meals to reduce food waste

7. Choose local & seasonal produce

Farmers' markets and local stores can often offer fresh, affordable, and sustainable food options.

8. Use energy-efficient appliances

When buying electronics, choose Energy Star-rated products to reduce electricity usage.

9. Unplug devices when not in use

Even when turned off, plugged-in devices consume standby power. Unplug them to save energy.

10. Limit water waste

• Take shorter showers

• Use a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water

• Fix leaky taps to prevent unnecessary water usage

11. Go digital

Instead of buying expensive textbooks, use e-books, PDFs, and online research materials.

12. Buy used books or rent

Websites like Chegg, Amazon Rentals, and university bookstores offer second-hand books at a fraction of the cost.

13. Use recycled paper & notebooks

Opt for notebooks made from recycled materials to reduce deforestation.

14. Explore international student loan options

Studying in the US requires significant financial investment. International students can opt for:

• Private lenders: Prodigy Finance offers collateral-free education loans with or without cosigners. We now also offer new co-signer loans for Indian students. 

• Government & private loans: Some require a co-signer or collateral.

• Scholarships & grants: Research universities and organisations that offer study abroad financial aid.

15. Manage your budget wisely

Create a monthly budget and track expenses using apps like Mint or PocketGuard to ensure financial sustainability.

16. Work part-time (if permitted)

Many international students work on-campus or find internships to support themselves financially while gaining work experience.

17. Use reusable bags, bottles & containers

Invest in eco-friendly products such as:

• Cloth shopping bags instead of plastic

• Reusable water bottles

• Glass or metal containers for food storage

18. Participate in university recycling programmes

Most universities have recycling bins for paper, plastic, and e-waste. Use them properly to minimise waste.

19. Donate unused items

Instead of throwing away clothes, books, or electronics, donate them to:

• Local charities

• University donation drives

• Thrift stores

20. Buy only what you need

Avoid impulse shopping. Before purchasing something, ask yourself: Do I really need this?

21. Support ethical & sustainable brands

Look for brands that focus on sustainability, fair trade, and eco-friendly production.

22. Get involved in campus sustainability initiatives

Join university sustainability clubs or environmental volunteer programmes to make a difference.

• Prodigy Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom