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Office of Sustainability
University of Mississippi

Things to bring : a sustainable packing list for move-in 

**Make sure to plan with your roommate so you aren’t bringing/buying anything unnecessary

  • Reusable water bottle – Save money and waste less by choosing not to purchase cases of plastic water bottles. Bring a reusable bottle and refill it whenever you need. UM has many hydration stations for refilling bottles available on campus. Visit map.olemiss.edu and click “Wellness Resources” for a map of these locations.

 

  • Reusable coffee thermos – Many campus and city coffee shops offer discounts if you bring your own mug. Be sure to ask the cashier about this!

 

  • Reusable shopping bag- These are a more sustainable option than plastic bags, and they make carrying lots of groceries up to your dorm so much easier and quicker. Opt for more durable ones so that you can have them for a long time. 

 

  • Containers for leftovers- Saving leftovers is good practice to reduce food waste. Tupperware or food storage containers are also beneficial for bringing snacks on the go.

 

  • Silverware and plates – Instead of disposables opt for reusable plates and utensils to keep in your room. All rooms have access to sinks where these can be washed and reused.

 

  • Reusable straw- If you are someone who prefers using a straw in drinks make sure you bring a reusable one. Reusable straws are now sold in nearby stores like Marshalls and Walmart and come in silicone or stainless steel options. 

 

  • Reusable cutlery set- Bringing your own utensils with you on campus cand around town ensures you will not need to take unnecessary plastic. Having your own utensil set is helpful to make sure you are prepared for on the go meals as well. 

 

  • Lighting- If you will be bringing additional lightning like lamps make sure to use LED light bulbs to reduce energy use.

 

  • Appliances- If you are buying new electronics or appliances (like microwaves), look for the Energy Star logo to ensure you are buying an efficient product.

 

  • Surge protector- This limits the voltage supplied to an electric device and therefore saves energy when you plug in your devices to it. It also allows you to cut off the power from multiple devices at once when you leave. 

 

  • Bike and bike helmet (you can rent both from the UM Bike Shop for $30 a semester)

 

  • Houseplants Having greenery in your room can improve your mental health 

 

 

  • Reuseable Masks- Students returning to campus for Fall 2020 are required to wear masks when around others. Reduce medical waste by using reusable masks instead of disposables. Below are instructions on how to make your own. When possible, try to use fabric you have on hand or an old piece of clothing.

 

Before purchasing new items for all items, think about these questions! 

      • Is this something I need?
      • Is this product something you can make yourself with less waste or for more value? 
      • Can I borrow it from someone?
      • How long will it last?
      • Could I buy it used?
      • Is it produced with recycled material?
      • Is it in recyclable packaging like paper or plastics #1 & #2?
      • Is it tested on animals?
      • https://www.leapingbunny.org/guide/brands  – you can find a list of cruelty-free brands compiled by the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics at www.leapingbunny.org.
      • Is it being produced in an ethical way?/ Are workers paid a fair and living wage?
      • https://www.ethicaltrade.org/issues/living-wage-workers/living-wage-standards
      • Compared to other products you have access to is this the best product you think you can buy right now?
      • How can I dispose of it in a sustainable way once I am done with it?
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