Are you moving to your new home soon? Or maybe helping out someone in the near future? Moving can be a stressful, but rewarding experience, and keeping an eco-friendly idea in mind can make the experience all that more rewarding in the end. Here are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you keep waste to a minimum during your move and how to move green.
Use the right containers and bins
If you require boxes, there's almost no need to buy them new (and create new waste). You can easily go to your local grocery or department store and ask for used cardboard boxes. Your friends and family may be willing to part with some as well.
Another option to consider is using plastics bins and totes. They are easily reusable and are more durable which means it's easier to pass them on to others for their move.
Make less trips
Instead of using many small vehicles with multiple trips, it's a good idea to rent and use a large van or truck to lessen the amount of back and forth trips.
Donate unneeded items
Only bring what you need to your new home. This is your chance to declutter and donate any unnecessary items you have taking up space. Before you start packing for your move, bring old TVs, computers, cellphones and other electronics and household appliances to a center that specializes in recycling those items. Also think of any clothes, toys, and furniture that could go to someone else in need.
Use eco-friendly packing materials
To cut down on the amount of boxes or totes you need to move, you can use your clothes, linens, towels etc. as protection for your dishware and other fragile items. Wrapping and packing them together saves on paper and other materials that would otherwise be discarded after the move.
If you prefer to purchase padding, opt for reusable pads, recyclable paper and specially marked biodegradable bubble wrap and peanuts.
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