Moving is one of the least eco-friendly processes out there. From driving a truck back and forth to throwing away perfectly good packing materials, many movers make decisions that do more harm than good for the environment. If you’re looking to change this and mitigate your environmental impact, here are some ways to do so:
Reuse Packing Supplies
One of the most eco-friendly things you can do is avoid consumption where you can, and this goes for packing supplies as well. This is especially the case considering how many packing supplies are around you if you only take the time to look for them. Ask around — local shop owners and people who have already moved will likely have packing supplies that they’ll be glad to get off their hands.
Check your own home as well. If you have any boxes from online shopping or products you purchased, you may be able to use them for moving so long as they’re sturdy enough.
Get Creative with Packing Materials
A common myth when it comes to moving is that you need to move your items inboxes. While they are undoubtedly a great and sturdy option, they are by no means the only thing you can use. Anything from tote bags to suitcases to storage bins will work depending on the items you put inside.
You can also replace the padding you use as well. Rather than buying paper or styrofoam, you could use towels, clothes, or even rent packing materials to protect your fragile items.
Purchase Compostable Packing Materials
You may find that after following the tips above, you will still need to purchase some packing materials. This is perfectly okay, but it’s good to find greener alternatives. Compostable packing materials are more recommended than supposedly “biodegradable” items. Many manufacturers put a biodegradable label on things without making it clear that it will take years for the item to break down, during which time it will take up space in a landfill.
Instead, make sure that the items you use can be used as compost in your future home garden or someone else’s. Also, double-check the fine print to make sure that “compostable” actually means you can use it as compost in your home garden rather than requiring special conditions (as with many compostable plastics).
Recycle Items You Don’t Need
A bit of decluttering is always recommended before a move. When you do so, recycle what you can. Paper, cardboard, and styrofoam are typical choices, but be sure to check local recycling centers as well. Oftentimes, they will take more items than the ones you can put in your recycling bin.
You can also look into specialized companies to recycle other items. Some companies, for example, will let you recycle textiles. This is a great option for your clothes that are in poor condition.
Looking to Move? Contact Us Today
Of course, putting your items in compostable boxes and reducing your waste won’t matter much if you don’t have a way to transport your items to your new place. If you need moving services in Paoli, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started with your move.