By now, we are all aware that California is experiencing its worst drought of its century. We all see the commercials on TV and the red zones that are now covering the Golden State's outline on the weather report where there used to be an abundance of blue and green. The consequences of this drought are being felt by all inhabitants of California, from the Housewife who can't water her lawn in the daylight to the outdoor folk who can no longer camp at their favorite state park. The most grave consequence is that thousands of girls ranging from ages 13-28 have to find a new "go to" snack because the price of almonds have escalated. The mere travesty.
Real talk, though, this drought is an epidemic and we need to do something about it. Unfortunately, college students are getting the worst rep for contributing to the drought because, let's be honest, we are wasteful. Since you are not responsible for paying monthly for water and utilities in the dorms, a great deal of students take advantage of that and go on resource overload. This is not okay because all of these resources, especially water, need to come from somewhere. The worst offenders: out of state students. Yes that means you, out of state college student who gets to go home to another state with an abundance of H2O! You are accustomed to a certain type of lifestyle where water is plentiful and drought warnings are only found in nightmares. Well reality check: ever since you submitted your deposit to a school in California, you became a resident, even if it's for nine months out of the year, and should be emotionally invested in the well-being of this state. I mean Kay Perry did write a song about us after all! It's time for our generation to take a stand and alleviate the hydration burden of California, even by a little bit.
Have no fear fellow stewards of our Earth! The only way to save water isn't to forgo showering and only eat hemp! (unless you're into that) Here are a few fun ways you and your friends can do your part in keeping California [somewhat] blue!
1. Have a shower battle with your friends.
No, a shower battle this does not mean having a rap battle in the shower which would negate the whole purpose of this article. A shower battle is a competition between you and your friends to see who can take the shortest shower. Governor Jerry Brown released a statement that everyone should take five minute showers but I know y'all can do better. What about three minutes and 43 seconds? See how long it really takes you to wash, rinse, and repeat. You can even factor in a few seconds for a quick shampoo shimmy.
2. Have a succulent planting party.
Succulents are incredibly drought resistant plants and do not need much water to survive. This is why they are the perfect plant for your next gardening party. The best part? They're uber trendy now and look really cute inside and outside dorms!
Pro tip: try not to hit any of your friends with a shovel.
3. Throw a squad Meatless Monday Dinner.
One pound of beef takes 1600 pounds of water to produce (yes that is the real number -- I did not add extra zeros). Now, if being vegetarian isn't your thing, you can still contribute to saving a substantial amount of water if you eat less meat, especially red meat. Here are some delish recipes that won't leave you asking where's the beef. Make it an occasion (and prove your adulthood) with your friends by throwing a sustainable dinner party!
Those are three easy and fun ways to save the planet while also having a blast with the BFFs. The drought is a real issue and everyone needs to actively work to conserve water, especially college students. Do your part and conserve water so the next generation will have the opportunity to know the pure bliss of a slip n' slide.
