Moving can drain natural resources, create a lot of excess trash, and waste plenty of energy. There are many things to think about when relocating. Though moving can create a lot of stress, there are easy actions that you can take to reduce the load on the environment when you move.
Don't Be A "Pack Rat"
Less fossil fuels will be needed if you move a smaller amount. Consider getting rid of things you don't really need prior to your move. Any item that is still in usable condition can be donated so that its life cycle can continue on instead of being deposited into a landfill. Many throw away items may be able to be recycled. Be mindful of the fact that non-biodegradable items do not magically disappear once they leave your sight. They only move to a landfill where they take up land and can cause contamination of soil and water.
Excess items could be given to friends, family, or neighbors who need them. You could also choose to sell them. Short on time but want to get rid of items? Place them at the end of your driveway or near the curb with a sign that says "free" next to them. It should not take long for the items to find their way to new homes.
Eco-Friendly Movers
If you plan to hire a moving company, consider hiring one that offers eco-friendly services. Some will make use of boxes that are recyclable or made from recycled materials. Some use moving trucks that are run off ethanol. Feel free to ask about different practices when screening moving companies.
Should you plan to move everything yourself, do try to avoid purchasing boxes. Most local stores will allow you to have them for free. Natural resources are used in box production, even the recycled varieties. There is no reason to add to the problem, or spend your hard-earned money, when boxes are widely available at no cost. Large grocery chains may crush their boxes, but liquor stores, gas stations, and smaller stores typically do not do this and will gladly offer their boxes to you.
Disposal of Toxic Items
Most homes have many items that could be toxic. Some cleaning products, paints, antifreeze, bug killing sprays and much more should be disposed of properly. In some cities there are drop-off points for these items. Contact your local EPA to find out where and when you can hand these items off so that they can be safely recycled.
Moving to a new home provides a fresh start. Before starting this new chapter, consider ways to effectively get rid of items you no longer need in a responsible manner. These are just a few tips on how to move in a manner that will cause less negative impact on the environment. Remember that even small actions make a big difference!
