Sustainable Living Starts with Reusables: Bags, Bottles & Beyond

Making small, conscious choices in our daily routine does matter, and if we all do it, that can lead to significant environmental impact. Below, we've listed our top sustainable items, simple changes that can make a big difference over time. By swapping out single-use products for durable, refillable alternatives, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also support a culture of mindful consumption. This blog explores the simple everyday essentials that you can make part of your routine with very little effort – it just starts with those first steps.

Our top items:

• Reusable water bottle
• Reusable coffee cup
• Reusable bag
• Lunch boxes and food containers
• Refillable deodorant

Start with small changes

Small changes can feel less overwhelming. Simply remembering to take a reusable bottle with you means you won’t need to buy water while you're out. You can also use the Refill app, which shows you where to fill up your bottle for free. The average person uses 150 plastic bottles per year. By using a reusable water bottle you could you save yourself roughly £100 a year; not only that refilling these bottles are free! There are dozens of water fountains available across our campuses.

Make them convenient

Hang your reusable bags by the door so they’re easy to grab on your way out, or keep one folded in your bag so you always have it with you. By ditching single-use plastic bags, you're helping reduce pollution and protect the environment for future generations. It's a small change with a big ripple effect.


Leave a reusable coffee cup in your bag, so when you are out on the squares at Colchester you can grab a hot drink at one of our many cafes. Essex Food and SU cafes offer a discount when you bring your own cup, and most high street cafes do too. Those savings add up!

Fit them into your routine

Refillable deodorant is a great way to reduce waste from an item you use daily. These are now available in most supermarkets. While they may cost more upfront, they often last longer and contain fewer chemicals than traditional deodorants.


When cooking or prepping lunch, use reusable boxes whenever possible. They’re versatile, perfect for taking food on the go, storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer, and even reheating meals. They’re easy to wash and reuse, and most can be recycled with plastics once they reach the end of their life (as long as they’re clean).


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