These days, many people are more aware of their carbon footprint. Living an eco-friendly life means making a few small changes to your daily routine. If you’re trying to lower your impact on the environment—and you have a move coming up—you can definitely 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 requires a lot of supplies. That’s why one of the most important steps in making your move eco-friendly is selecting materials that are better for the environment. Below are some moving supplies that can help you create a greener, more environmentally friendly relocation.
Reusable Plastic Containers
Moving without cardboard boxes might seem surprising but with today’s focus on the environment, it’s more possible than ever. Reusable plastic containers are a smart choice because they can be used over and over, reducing the need for cardboard. They also offer extra benefits, such as saving you from dealing with stacks of boxes after the move. Instead, you can feel confident knowing your moving supplies are more environmentally friendly.
Recycled Moving Boxes
If you don’t want to spend extra money on plastic containers, there’s still a simple way to move in an eco-friendly way. Using recycled moving boxes is a smart option. Many stores have boxes they plan to throw away, and most are happy to give them to you for free. By reusing these boxes, you can save money while also helping protect the environment.
Make Use of What You Already Have
When you’re getting ready to move into a new home, it’s smart to make use of the items you already have. You’ll likely discover many everyday household items that can help make your move simpler and more efficient.
Use Blankets and Other Soft Items
When moving, many people purchase special moving blankets to protect fragile items. Instead of spending extra money, you can use what you already have. Regular blankets, pillows and other soft items work well for protecting mirrors, TVs and other delicate belongings. Every time you avoid buying extra supplies, you help reduce your carbon footprint in a meaningful way.
Make Use of Containers You Already Own
You may be surprised to learn that many everyday household items can double as moving containers. Items like drawers, shoe boxes and even trash bags can be used to pack 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 becomes to move in an eco-friendly way.
Properly Research Potential Moving Companies
A major part of planning an eco-friendly move is choosing the right moving company. Before hiring one, it’s important to research their practices and see if they can handle your move in a more environmentally friendly way.
Ask About the Materials They Use
If you want your move to be eco-friendly, ask the moving company about the types of materials they use. Many companies today are working 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 better for the planet.
Check the Type of Fuel They Use
The type of fuel a moving company uses plays a big role in how eco-friendly they are. Before choosing a company, ask what kind of fuel their trucks run on. Many movers now use cleaner options like biodiesel, which helps reduce harmful emissions. Biodiesel offers several benefits and more companies are recognizing its positive effect on the environment.
Moving to a new home can have a big impact on the environment but there are many ways to make the process more eco-friendly. Using green moving supplies, reusing items you already own and carefully researching moving companies are just a few steps that can help reduce your carbon footprint during the move.
After the Move
Even after your move is complete, you can continue making eco-friendly choices. For example, when deep cleaning your new home, choose green cleaning products—many brands now offer options that are safer for the environment. You can also build new eco-friendly habits, such as using energy-efficient appliances or replacing old light bulbs with LEDs. These small changes can make a big difference in keeping your new home environmentally friendly.
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 a little extra effort and planning, the results are worth it. In the end, your choices help protect the environment. By following this step-by-step guide, you can move without unnecessary waste and feel proud of the positive impact you’ve made.
