Classes have ended, finals are on the horizon, and everyone is dreaming of going home for the break as soon as their last final is over. But before you can go, there are some things you must do to winterize your dorm.
Remember to:

  • Close all of your windows.
  • Turn off all power strips and unplug everything from the wall.
  • Unplug your refrigerator and leave the door of the fridge open. Place a towel underneath the door to catch the melted ice.
  • Prevent food waste by eating or taking home all left-over nonperishable foods.
  •  Turn the thermostat to 1.

All of these simple things help Tufts reduce our energy consumption over break! Want more tips on how to have a sustainable winter break?

Sustainable winter break tips:

  •  Put on a sweater before turning up the heat.
  • Recycle any notebooks that you’re done with after your final.
  • Think about how your travel impacts the environment. Find more about sustainable travel from last week’s blog post.
  • Wrap your holiday presents in newspaper and reusable gift bags.
  •  Give sustainable presents. Check out some great gifts for everyone on your list here!
  •  Reduce your food waste during those big holiday dinners.
  •  If you have the opportunity, go adventure in the outdoors! Use your winter break to reconnect with your home and nature. Take a walk, go for a hike, swim, or ski. Take advantage of not having exams, homework, or meetings and get outside!

Congratulations on a great fall semester and good luck with finals! We wish you a very sustainable winter break!