There's no reason why going “green” can't mean saving green when you move. Here are ten easy things you can do to make your move eco-friendly and maybe even save a bundle!
Why moving = pollution
Too often, moving is synonymous with litter and pollution. Why? The main reason is that a massive number of objects wind up at the dump. Cleaning chemicals and large paint cans are frequently left outside instead of being properly discarded. Not to mention all the garbage bags, plastic packing materials and noxious emissions from the moving truck.
Cleaner moving solutions
With a little bit of effort, you can move in an environmentally responsible manner that might even save you some money. Here are10 easy things you can do to make your move eco-friendly:
Instead of throwing it away
1. Give your (good condition) surplus items to family, friends or to a shelter or crisis centre.
2. Host a garage sale or list your items to sell on the online classifieds.
3. Recycle unwanted tires, oil, paint, medicines, batteries, electronics and appliances.
Green tips for packing
4. Wrap fragile items with linens, such as towels, tablecloths, curtains and blankets. If you run out, buy some from a non-profit charitable organization. It’s inexpensive and you can either re-use them or donate them when you’re done.
5. Instead of buying new boxes, gather recyclable boxes from grocery stores, pharmacies and liquor stores.Don’t be shy to ask — they're happy to do it.
6. Rent a plastic container. More and more companies offer container rentals. The bins are mobile, robust and easy to fill. The advantage with bins is that you won’t have to assemble and disassemble boxes (as you do with cardboard) and they're very convenient to stack.
Say "no" to chemicals
7. Since moving requires a lot of cleaning, both before and after, why not use biodegradable products? They're sold everywhere now and have never been more affordably priced.
8. As you will likely have to paint, opt for recycled paint. When you’re done, bring the paint cans (empty or full) back to the home renovation store where they'll be recycled.
Alternative methods of transport
9. If you live in a major city, there’s a good chance you can find a bicycle-powered moving company. Bike movers have special trailers equipped to haul large loads. It's the greenest means of transport possible if you don’t have far to go, and the rate is much cheaper than renting a truck.
10. If you have no choice but to use a truck, go with a company that has an environmental policy. Rent a truck large enough to avoid as many trips as possible. Be sure to drive in an environmentally responsible manner by going easy on the accelerator and avoiding detours.
