Purchase Sustainably

Choose to Purchase Less

The biggest impact that we can make? Conscious consumerism! Think more about what you are buying, where it came from, the impact that it’s production had, and where it will go after you’re done with it. Ask yourself:

• Do I really need this or is it an impulse purchase?
• Will I use it often?
• Will I still want it in the future?
• What is the quality of the item and will it last for years to come?
• Can I borrow it or purchase secondhand?
• Can I leave this in my cart to think about for a day and come back to if I still want it then? 

If you need it- don’t feel guilty! Choosing to be a conscious consumer is all about putting thought behind purchases, not feeling bad about the purchases that we need to make.

Borrow

Before you buy, consider borrowing! Davis Family Library has a whole library of equipment that students, faculty, and staff can borrow at no cost.

Need gear for an outdoor adventure? The Middlebury Outdoor Programs Gear Room has an extensive inventory of gear to borrow, from tents and sleeping bags to stand up paddleboard and snowshoes.

Tool libraries are also popping up across the country and although there isn’t one in Middlebury yet, there may be one where you call home!

Bring…

• Your own mug for discounts at Middlebury coffee shops
• Your own shopping bag to the store to reduce plastic and paper bag usage (and for a sturdier option for heavy groceries)
• Your own to-go containers for leftovers when you eat out
• Your Middlebury reusable containers for food to go at the dining halls
• Your own water bottle to avoid single-use plastic bottles and the harmful PFAS, BPA, and microplastics

Fix

If possible, fix what you already have instead of tossing it and buying new! Learn a new handy skill, save money, and reduce waste. Our annual Maine Gear Share events on campus are a great resource.

Thrift and Purchase Secondhand

Purchasing secondhand contributes to the goal of a circular economy and helps to keep items out of landfills! The textile industry alone accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions and has many other significant impacts on people and the environment.

There are fantastic thrift stores in Middlebury and more secondhand options online as well for unique and good quality products.

• Here on campus: check out the Reuse Trailers at the Recycling Center! Students contribute items that they don’t want to transport at the end of the academic year and there are treasures to be found, from clothes to home products like mini fridges and box fans.
• While you’re exploring Middlebury town: check out Buy Again Alley, H.O.P.E. Resale Store, Neat Repeats, and Round Robin. There are also many options in Burlington, including Outdoor Gear Exchange, that have great options for secondhand gear and goods.
• Online: check out websites like Backmarket for good quality, secondhand electronics, Depop, Thredup, Poshmark, Etsy, and others for clothing, and Facebook Marketplace for home goods and other items! Buy Nothing groups are also a great place to score items for free and list any items that you are hoping to get rid of.

Personal Products

Opt for more natural products in your personal care routine and consult the EWG guide to see if products contain harmful chemicals.

• Choose cleaning and laundry products carefully to avoid phosphates, which pollute waters and harm ecosystems, and petrochemicals, which are made from petroleum or carbon. White vinegar, water, baking soda, and lemon juice are some versatile, low-cost natural cleaning options.
• If you have small appliances in your room, look for the energy star label and rating (bonus points: if you’re looking for a small appliance, check out the Reuse Trailers before buying new)
• If you’re getting rid of anything (technology, appliances, clothes, etc), consider selling it, donating it or giving it away (https://freecycle.org/ or through your local buy nothing group) or look into how to properly recycle it through Addison County Waste Management
• Try to incorporate a vegetarian or vegan meal or two into your weekly meal planning and grocery shopping! It’s good for the planet and for your health.

How Does This Work Connect to the Bigger Picture?

Explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)