Moving In Sustainably

Welcome to UCSD! Welcome Tritons!

Here are some suggestions to move in sustainability and set the foundation for living sustainably while on campus.

Sustainable Shopping

Bring and buy only what you need to the dorms/apts.
Acquire secondhand items. Places to shop: Thrift stores, FB Marketplace/Groups (ex. “UCSD Housing/sublets/rentals”), OfferUp, UCSD Surplus.
Fewer things = reduced packaging.
Shop for remaining items once you’re on campus. Assess what you need after moving in. Shop with a plan.
Plan to attend campus swapping events. These events will be posted.
Sustainable Shopping Video

Consider fridge + microwave rental. Less hassle and no fridges go to waste at the end of the year. Participate in the circular economy.
Reuse spare appliances like microwaves, fridges, toasters, rice cookers, etc.
Contact suitemates and roommates and see who’ll bring what to avoid redundant purchases, especially appliances.
When purchasing appliances and electronics, consider energy star labeled products.

Avoid single use packing materials-like garbage bags, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and styrofoam.
Utilize as much alternative storage as possible in place of boxes, i.e. duffle bags, reusable shopping bags, gym bags, laundry hamper(s)/baskets, luggage, etc.
Use as few boxes as possible to store items.
When packing, wrap breakable items like dishes, lights, and electronics in your clothes, towels or even used paper. If you run out of alternatives, reuse old bubble wrap, boxes and packing material before buying it new.

Understand parking/unloading instructions before moving in to avoid unnecessary driving/fuel use
Use eco-friendly and minimally packaged cleaning supplies that don’t contain harmful chemicals.
Use reusable/washable cloths if possible vs. single use wipes when cleaning.
Save boxes if possible for Move Out. Otherwise, remember to remove any tape, break them down, and recycle them in the appropriate bins/dumpsters.
Consult the UCSD Waste Sorting Guide, waste sorting magnet in your campus residence, or campus waste sorting signage for clarification.