Campus & Community

Campus Move-In Guide: The Sustainable Way

Tuesday, August 8, 2023, By Christine Grabowski
Otto the Orange recycling a clear plastic water bottle.

Otto the Orange knows the importance of being sustainable.

Whether it’s your first time living in a residence hall or you’re moving back to campus or somewhere off campus, you can make your move as environmentally friendly and sustainable as possible. Plus, save money, time and space in the process.

“Sustainable practices are meant to have a lasting impact. By making a few small changes in your move-in routine, you can reduce the amount of waste produced, help protect the environment and make your life easier,” says Sustainability Project Manager Lydia Knox.

Catch these tips from the University’s Sustainability Management team before you start to pack for the fall semester:

Water bottle refilling station and water drinking fountain.

Water bottle refilling station and water drinking fountain.

  • Communication: Coordinate with roommates ahead of time to reduce duplicate items in the new space.
  • Quality Over Quantity: Space is often limited in residential halls and apartments for students, bring only what is necessary and leave the rest home. If possible, swap out clothes seasonally with items from home.
  • Wait to Buy: Only pack and move essentials; secondhand stores like 3fifteen offer great options for gently used items.
  • Pack Smart: To reduce waste, avoid using boxes, pack items in suitcases, totes and reusable containers.
  • Ditch the Printer: Save space and leave printers at home. Students are each given a credit on their student print account for the year.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle and use the campus map to find out where the water bottle filling stations are available all over campus.

    Electrical power strip with with two items plugged in.

    Don’t forget to pack a power strip for your electronics.

  • Pack LEDs: For desk and floor lamps, select LED bulbs, which use less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.
  • Power Saver: Pack power strips, which give you the ability to easily turn electronics off when not in use.
  • Pedal Power: One of the best ways to get around campus is on a bicycle. Bike racks are located all over campus and can be easily located on the campus map. If you do bring a bike to campus, don’t forget to register it with the Department of Public Safety and use a U-Bolt lock to secure it.
Individual holding a box of items to donate next to a van loaded with other items to be donated.

Van full of items to be donated at the end of the year

Upon arrival to campus, be sure to familiarize yourself with what can and cannot be recycled on campus. This is important to know because what is recycled back home could be different than what we recycle on campus.

As the semester goes on, put aside things you may no longer need and if they are in good condition, consider donating them at the end of the year. Sustainability Management piloted a move out donation program on South Campus last year and expects to expand this program across campus at the end of the Spring 2024 semester.