Living sustainably in Leeds: advice from a third year
Whilst some of those new to Leeds University may be accustomed to the feeling of moving to a new city, I know that I found myself on the opposite end of the spectrum having grown up in the same town my entire life. Perhaps one of the most difficult parts of moving away for potentially the first time is not just the usual rhetoric of meeting new friends or learning to love your course, but also the daunting process of relearning your whole way of life without your regular home comforts.
Whilst the process of exploring a new city to call home is unbelievably exciting, finding these places again can be arduous, especially if you’re someone who tries their best interest to follow a sustainable lifestyle. However, I am here to take you through what I have found to be some tried and tested, student budget friendly locations across Leeds that I can happily now call myself a regular of.
Starting with what is potentially most important to me, clothes. Second hand clothes shops are in no shortage across Leeds; like almost anywhere in England, charity shops can be found in the surplus. Whether they’re scattered throughout the city centre or lining Headingley’s high street each are situated beside many cafes and pubs which can be made into a worthwhile day out.
One of my favourites is the Revive, Reuse found on Evanston Avenue in Burley as they also host a wide range of home-wear which proved both cheap and useful when it came to decorating my second-year home. Remaining on the cheaper end of the scale, there are often vintage kilo sales held on campus within the Student Union as well as car boot sales on the outskirts of the city such as Otley Car Boot Sale, found at Wharfedale Farmers Auction Mart on Leeds Road, held every Sunday 12-4pm.
However, on the rare occasion in which we are able to stretch the student budget that bit further, one may choose to upgrade to vintage stores. Located in the heart of the city centre is Pop Boutique which is on the more affordable side as well as Cow Vintage, which despite being pricier boasts an enormous selection. Hyde Park is also home to one of students most frequented, North South Vintage, that yet again can be expensive but the wide range across multiple floors never disappoints.
Food shopping can often be trickier as a sustainable buyer as the access to cost friendly stores can be limited. Whilst Leeds provides a wide selection of zero waste stores, the price point is not always student friendly. Like Nana Did is remarked to be good value for money and is conveniently located in Otley whilst providing a wide range of refill options. Likewise the LUU Green Action Society shop is a refill stop which, whilst limited in size and hence what it can offer, does aim to keep costs attainable.
What I have found to be a more affordable option during my time here are the local produce markets available across the city; Headingley Greengrocer provides fresh local produce where possible and is working to reduce their reliance on single use plastic.
Elsewhere in the heart of the city, is a Leeds staple; Kirkgate Market which displays a wide range of fresh local produce, there is also the option of the Leeds Outdoor Market open daily other than Sundays or Headingley Farmers Market that is only available monthly. Lovingly Green as well as Original Way also both offer themselves as more accessible options as they provide home delivery.
Whilst the process of this can be overwhelming, the most important thing is to take pleasure in getting to know the city and making it your own. The adjustment period varies between us all, but I have found that living in Leeds has made following a sustainable lifestyle easier than ever before.
