Within the last few decades, the world has become more focused on conserving planet earth.
There are many ways to make a positive impact every day, but when it comes to moving, the possibilities might not be so obvious.
Here are a few tips you can implement during your move to reduce your carbon footprint and leave the world a better place.
Reuse Old Containers
Reusing old containers is a great way to stay eco-friendly while moving.
As stated by Plano movers, whether you’re in a small apartment or have a full house to move, it’s likely that you have bins or boxes lying around. Use these bins to pack your items when moving.
Suitcases and laundry bins are large reusable containers that would be ideal for moving! You’ll already be bringing those items with you, so why not use them?
You can also use dressers and drawers to pack smaller items and save space on the moving truck, but make sure this is okay with your moving company. Some companies require all drawers to be taken out of dressers before moving. If that’s the case, all you’ll have to do is secure the drawers and move each one on its own.
If you do need to buy new boxes for your move, be sure to break them down and save them for the next time you move in order to make your future moves eco-friendly as well.
Repurpose Clothes for Packing Material
Buying and using packing materials (like packing peanuts) once and then throwing them away is wasteful and harmful to the environment. You will use them once, throw them away, and send them to sit in a landfill.
Instead of packing peanuts or paper, use shirts, towels, blankets, and other soft materials to wrap breakable items. Even small, overlooked items like socks and mittens are useful, as they can be used to pack jewelry or silverware.
Utilizing free and reusable packing materials is an impactful way to support an eco-friendly move.
Plastic materials are bad for the environment due to their rate of decomposition; plus, animals often mistake them for food.
If you don’t feel comfortable using this method, there are eco-friendly packing materials made from recycled materials that you can opt for.
Donate or Sell Unwanted Items
During most moves, residents choose to throw away their unwanted items instead of donating them because of the time it saves; moving a dresser on your front yard is easier than packing it up to take to a donation center, but did you know our landfills are overflowing into nearby ecosystems and harming the environment?
There is simply not enough space for all of these discarded items.
Instead of taking old furniture to the dump or leaving it in front of your house, donate or sell your old items to make sure they are put to good use. If you consider selling your old gold jewelry, you can earn a significant amount of money.
Donating items will give you an extra pep in your step knowing you helped someone in need, and selling your items will give you additional money for the move. It’s a win-win situation for you and the planet.
Consolidate Trips
Reducing the number of tips you take back and forth to your old and new home is another way to implement eco-friendly practices during your move.
The gases emitted from our vehicles with all the back and forth are harmful to the atmosphere and living species.
To reduce these emissions, hire a moving company with a large truck to haul all your items or rent a truck on your own.
Try to handle any deposits or final payments online instead of driving to a physical location.
Reduce Your Environmental Impact While Moving
As humans, it’s our obligation to take care of the planet we call home. One way you can do this is by leveraging eco-friendly moving strategies.
By following the tips above, you are doing your part to make our world a better place to live. Don’t forget to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
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