June 2016 Green Tip: Graduation Weekend

Sometimes, the most sustainable option is also the most enjoyable, and this is certainly the case for graduation weekend! With commencement ceremonies and celebrations with family and friends, keep these tips in mind to make the most of your weekend.

Consolidate Travel

Getting from point A to point B during graduation weekend is anything but simple since it's one of the busiest weekends of the whole year in Santa Cruz! Family coming from out of town will most likely get caught in the inbound traffic on Highway 17 or Highway 1, and parking for commencement ceremonies on campus can be challenging. Reduce stress and be part of the solution by carpooling as much as possible, show your friends and family around by bicycle (you can rent them from some places), or take the bus.

Hydration

As your loved ones are watching you walk at graduation, the last thing you want is for them to feel parched and dehydrated as they sit under that hot Santa Cruz sun. Fortunately, UCSC has bottled water-free commencements, with compostable cups and water jugs available instead! You can reduce your group's waste footprint even further by encouraging them to bring their own refillable bottles to the ceremony. 

Off the Beaten Path

Going to the Boardwalk and other such "tourist" activities can be fun to do with visiting friends and family, but consider taking the time to enjoy the natural wonders of Santa Cruz. You can even host your post-graduation festivities at the beach or one of our beautiful state parks. For a more extensive look at these activities, check out this classic Green Tip!

And to everyone who is graduating this quarter, congratulations!

How are you planning on making your graduation weekend a reflection of your banana slug value of sustainability? Let us know in the comments!