Going green is trendy right now, but does it really apply to students? After all, most students don't own homes, and many cannot come close to affording a hybrid car.

In reality, the green movement is so expansive that it can apply to students from all living situations, whether you are a dorm resident or rent your own house or apartment.

In the residence halls

University Housing and Food Services (HFS) is responding to students' wishes for greener and more natural products and services.

HFS encourages students to select reusable plates, bowls and silverware rather than throwaway paper products. Students who ask for a ceramic bowl or plate in HFS eateries will be given a $0.25 discount, according to the March newsletter Buzzworthy.

Additionally, HFS is working in conjunction with the group Students Expressing Environmental Dedication (SEED) to develop a campus-wide composting program. In Eleven 01, composting containers are available for soiled paper and food waste disposal; see instructions on the containers to determine what is compost-able.

HFS also recently added natural products to both 2 Convenient and Ian's Domain, including Tom's toothpastes and Seventh Generation paper products, among other items.

Residence hall students can also take their own steps to help the environment, including recycling paper, plastic and cans.

On your own: Renting apartments and houses

Once students move from the residence halls to their own place, green living becomes more important because it directly impacts the electricity bill. When looking at a place to rent, the following things should be considered.

Are the appliances energy-efficient? Check out the dishwasher, freezer, washer and dryer for energy saver settings. When using appliances, be sure to follow green guidelines like only washing full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine.

The refrigerator specifically can consume loads of energy. According to Seattle City Light, a refrigerator just 10 degrees colder than necessary can increase energy consumption by 25 percent.

It is important to be aware of energy usage in your home, because according to Time Magazine, residential energy use accounts for 16 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Not only does an energy-inefficient home hurt the environment, it causes the electricity bill to go up.

To be extra careful, check a potential house or apartment for heat, air and moisture leakage, especially around windows and doors.

Also check with landlords about recycling, garbage and composting policies, and make sure it is OK to use compact fluorescent lightbulbs.