Green Moving: Tips for an Environmentally Friendly Relocation
Moving or relocating isn’t always an environmentally friendly process. Movers waste a lot of materials, accumulate trash, and drive around emitting carbon into the air. However, there are ways to practice sustainability in moving as you get everything together for different stages of the process. By implementing a green moving approach, you can help the environment and save money, making it a win-win for you and the planet.
Declutter before moving
When you begin packing, you’ll find many outfits you no longer wear and items you no longer use. Get rid of all such belongings. Decluttering your home can make it easier for you to manage your move and reduce the number of boxes you require for packing. Sell, donate, or recycle all the extra items to minimize waste.
Replace cardboard boxes with reusable and eco-friendly packing materials.
Use greener packing options instead of the traditional cardboard boxes. These include reusable crates and moving bins. You can pick them up from any local hardware store or market. The best thing about using these items is that you can use them later as storage containers for keeping essential documents, holiday decorations, electronic wires, or seasonal clothes. Moreover, you can use your blankets, bedsheets, and towels instead of bubble wrap to protect your belongings during transit.
Opt for virtual surveys and quotes.
Some moving companies survey your premises on a video call, saving time, fuel, and other resources. They also provide digital quotes and encourage paperless operations, making your move more eco-friendly. Do fewer back-and-forth trips and choose energy-efficient transportation. Focus on reducing the number of trips made in your move. Do not make small trips to and from your new house, and try to get everything shipped by your movers on the moving day. Some movers have specialized fleets optimized for fuel efficiency. Pick a packers and moving company committed to green practices to reduce your emissions during transit.
Use existing containers and packing materials.
You need boxes, and a lot of them, to pack your stuff. If you choose to use the containers you already have instead of buying new ones, you can cut down on a lot of waste. Use suitcases, plastic bins, reusable grocery totes, gym and duffel bags, and dresser drawers. You’ll be carrying these items anyway, so filling them up before packing is a good idea. You can also borrow packing materials from anyone you know who has recently moved.
Offset your carbon footprint.
You can offset your carbon footprint and further reduce the environmental impact of your move by investing in renewable energy projects and donating to a renowned eco-friendly organization. This step balances the environmental impact of your move and contributes to a healthier environment.
Hire an eco-conscious mover.
It’s cumbersome to do everything related to relocating yourself. Thus, consider taking the help of a moving company that values you and the environment. Pikkol believes in decreasing the environmental impact of moving by implementing sustainable practices.
Follow eco-friendly practices in your new home.
Even after you settle in your new home, keep following the green living approach. You can use energy-efficient appliances and less-toxic cleaning products, conserve water whenever possible, create a composting system, and start consuming food grown using regenerative farming methods.
Summing up
Entering a new home is a new beginning for you and your family, but by keeping sustainability in mind, you can make the experience beneficial for the planet as well. A green move is possible if you swear to be conscious of your choices. Follow the above-mentioned tips to reduce the adverse effects of your relocation.
