These days, many people are more mindful of their carbon footprint. Living an eco-friendly life means making a few small changes to your daily routine. If you’re trying to reduce your impact on the environment—and you have a relocation coming up—you can absolutely do it in a greener way. This step-by-step guide will help you move your belongings while causing as little harm to the environment as possible.
Buy Eco-Friendly Moving Supplies
It’s no secret that moving takes a lot of supplies. That’s why one of the most important parts of making your move eco-friendly is choosing materials that are safe for the environment. Below are some moving supplies that can help you achieve a greener, more environmentally friendly relocation.
Reusable Plastic Containers
Who would have imagined moving without cardboard boxes? Today, with more focus on the environment, it’s easier than ever. Using reusable plastic containers is a great option because they can be used again and again, which cuts down on the need for cardboard. They also come with other benefits, like saving you the trouble of recycling piles of boxes after your move. Instead, you can feel good knowing your moving supplies are safer for the environment.
Recycled Moving Boxes
If you don’t want to spend extra on plastic containers, there’s still an easy way to move in an eco-friendly way. Using recycled moving boxes is a smart choice. Many stores have plenty of boxes they’re planning to throw away and most are happy to give them to you for free boxes. By reusing these boxes, you’ll not only cut costs but also play a part in protecting the environment.
Make Use of What You Already Have
When you’re preparing to move into a new home, it’s a good idea to take advantage of the things you already own. You’ll likely find plenty of household items that can help make your move easier and more efficient.
Use Blankets and Other Soft Items
When moving, many people buy special moving blankets to keep fragile items safe. But instead of spending money, you can use things you already own. Regular blankets, pillows or other soft items work perfectly for protecting mirrors, TVs and other delicate belongings. Each time you skip buying extra supplies, you’re cutting down your carbon footprint in a big way.
Make Use of Containers You Already Own
You might be surprised to know that many everyday household items can work as moving containers. Things like drawers, shoe boxes and even trash bags can be used to carry your belongings. By reusing what you already have at home, you’ll need fewer boxes and packing supplies. The more you rely on your own items, the easier it will be to move in an eco-friendly way.
Properly Research Potential Moving Companies
A big part of having an eco-friendly move depends on the moving company you choose. Before hiring, it’s important to learn about their practices to see if they can handle your move in a way that’s environmentally friendly.
Ask About the Materials They Use
If you want your move to be eco-friendly, ask the moving company what kind of materials they use. Many companies today are making efforts to reduce their impact on the environment. Choosing a company that uses eco-friendly supplies is a smart step toward making your move greener and safer for the planet.
Check the Type of Fuel They Use
The fuel a moving company relies on makes a big difference in how eco-friendly they are. Before you decide on a company, ask what kind of fuel their trucks run on. These days, many movers have switched to cleaner options like biodiesel which helps cut down harmful emissions. Using biodiesel has many benefits and more companies are recognizing its positive impact on the environment.
Moving to a new home can have a big impact on the environment but there are plenty of ways to make it eco-friendly. Choosing green moving supplies, reusing what you already own and carefully researching moving companies are just a few steps that can help you lower your carbon footprint during the process.
After the Move
Even after your relocation, you can keep making eco-friendly choices. For instance, when deep cleaning your new home, choose green cleaning products—many brands now offer options that are safer for the environment. You can also start new eco-friendly habits, like using energy-efficient appliances or switching out old light bulbs for LEDs. These small changes can make a big difference in keeping your new home green.
Whether you’re moving locally, across the country or even internationally, it’s possible to complete your move in an eco-friendly way. While it may take extra effort and commitment, the results are worth it. In the end, your actions will help protect the environment. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to move without being wasteful and feel proud of the positive impact you’ve made.