Are you worried about how your upcoming move is going to impact your environmental footprint? Although a move isn't always the greenest thing, it is something you need to do occasionally. The following tips can help you lower your eco-impact, whether you are moving across town or across the country.
Use What You Have
Chances are you already have quite a few packing supplies on hand. Used cardboard boxes and many other everyday items will work well. Plastic storage tubs and crates, duffel bags and suitcases, and empty drawers all make suitable packing containers that won't end up in a landfill.
Repurpose anything you own that can hold stuff into a moving box. Empty trash cans are perfect for packing small or oddly-shaped items. You can pack your kitchen linens inside the otherwise empty microwave. Get creative so that no empty space is wasted.
Reuse Boxes
If you must use cardboard boxes, opt to reuse boxes from a business or someone else's move. This way you aren't responsible for the manufacturing of new materials to load up your move. Afterward, you can pass the boxes on to someone else that is moving, or you can recycle the boxes.
If you must purchase boxes new, opt for those made from recycled materials. Another option is to look into box rental. Some moving and storage companies have reusable plastic totes that you can rent for your move.
Lighten Your Load
The fewer items you move, the fewer boxes you need and the less fuel you need to expend to tote the items to your new home. Purge thoroughly before your move. Many textiles, including clothing, shoes and books, can be donated to thrift stores. Find a textile recycler for especially worn out clothing or linens. Drop off old broken or outdated electronics at the local recycling center. Very few items have to go to the landfill if you take the time to connect with the proper recycling group.
Travel Wisely
It goes without saying that the fewer trips you make, the less fuel you consume. If you are renting your own truck for a local move, opt for one that is just the right size to move everything in a single trip. For longer moves, check out the eco-steps taken by several different moving companies. You can find movers that use green biodiesel trucks as opposed to those that run on fossil fuel. These companies will also use only green packing materials, including recycled or reusable boxes, if they are doing the packing and loading for you.
For more information about eco-friendly moving options, contact companies like Route 37 Self-Storage and ask what steps they take to reduce the footprint of their move.
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