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The 6th Way for College Students and Everyone Else to Practice Sustainability

Why Renting Instead of Buying Could Be Your Smartest Green Choice

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Sustainability doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In a CNN article by Gina Park, experts highlighted five easy ways to live more sustainably with small, practical changes that add up to a big impact. But there’s one more tip worth adding — a sixth way that applies not only to students, but to families, travelers, and really, anyone. Renting what you need instead of buying is a simple habit that can cut down waste, save money, and free up space.

1. The First Five Ways (from CNN)

Choose a reusable bottle: Skip single-use plastics by carrying your own refillable water bottle or tumbler.

Stick to a “green” dorm theme: Save energy by unplugging electronics, using fewer devices, and choosing Energy Star–certified appliances.

Plan your commute: Walk, bike, or use shuttles and public transit to cut emissions.

Get your steps in: Take the stairs instead of the elevator — it’s healthier and saves energy.

Eat “green”: Shift toward plant-based meals, which are better for both your health and the planet.

2. The 6th Way: Rent What You Need Instead of Buying

Here’s the reality: college life is full of short-term needs. You’ll buy a tent for one camping trip, a wheelchair for your grandparent or extra chairs for a party, things you’ll leave behind after graduation. Those items end up shoved under beds, gathering dust in closets, or tossed out altogether.

Renting flips the script. Instead of owning everything, you borrow what you need, when you need it. It keeps your space clean, your costs low, and your impact lighter on the planet.

3. Real-Life Campus Examples

This isn’t just a nice idea — it’s already happening on campuses like Stanford University and Texas A&M University, where rental services like Cloud of Goods are featured in student resource guides. Students there can book travel gear, mobility aids, or event equipment with just a few clicks.

Imagine this: it’s graduation week, and you know you’ll be walking across campus from ceremonies to celebrations. Instead of buying a scooter you’ll never use again, you rent one just for the day. Or if a family member needs a wheelchair to get around large venues, you can arrange one to be delivered directly to campus. Renting makes these moments easier, more affordable, and more sustainable.

4. What Cloud of Goods Rents (Student-Friendly Scenarios)

Cloud of Goods delivers items when you need them and picks them up when you’re done. Here’s how students (and their families) actually use it:

Mobility gear for big events: Rent a wheelchair or scooter for graduation week so loved ones can move around campus comfortably.

Travel gear for trips: Need an extra suitcase, stroller, or bike for a weekend getaway? Borrow it instead of buying.

Event gear for campus life: Hosting a club fundraiser or dorm party? Rent chairs, tables, or even games instead of cramming them into storage afterward.

Family visits with kids: Parents or siblings visiting with little ones? Rent cribs, car seats, or strollers so they don’t have to travel with bulky gear.

Instead of owning items you’ll barely use, you simply rent, enjoy, and return.

Options like wheelchairs or mobility scooters can be especially useful around graduation day if you’ll be on your feet all day or navigating large campus venues.

Lightweight Transpor...

(4.7/5)

Standard Wheelchair

(4.6/5)

Women's hybrid bike

(4.0/5)

Men's hybrid bike

(3.5/5)

Heavy Duty Mobility ...

(4.3/5)

Lightweight Mobility...

(4.3/5)

Ultra Light Standard...

(4.6/5)

Extra Large Heavy Du...

(4.3/5)

Electric bike

(4.7/5)

5. The Takeaway

Sustainability isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being intentional. The five tips from CNN give you easy ways to start. Adding a sixth step — renting instead of buying — makes university life even more practical for students.

So before you hit “add to cart” for something you’ll only use once, pause and ask yourself: Could I rent this instead?

Because sometimes the greenest choice is also the smartest one for your wallet, your space, and your future.