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If you're planning a move anytime soon, then you know it's a big undertaking. With tons of boxes and time on the road, you need a system in place.
Think about it, much of your stuff will end up in the landfill after you are done with the moving process. This is not exactly an eco-friendly practice, but with a few changes it could be! In fact, moving the traditional way is practically an environmentalist nightmare.
Read on to find out the easiest way to make your move across the country eco-friendly!
1. Use Reusable Containers
Most people imagine the moving process includes big cardboard boxes that they pack their stuff into and throw away after. But all that trash is super bad for the environment. Those cardboard boxes end up in a landfill very quickly, and though they may seem small it all adds up to a significant amount.
By replacing traditional cardboard with reusable moving boxes you will cut down on the amount of trash you generate. Additionally, some moving companies offer packages wherein they lend you reusable moving packaging so that others can reuse it too!
This green solution is great because it helps lower the demand for the production of single-use items, and means you have one less item to store when you get to your new home.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Purge and Donate
When moving, people often take the time to examine their stuff and purge as needed, this is actually one of the greenest things you can do.
Getting rid of unnecessary items before you move means that there's less stuff you're hauling along the road with you. Which in turn lowers the volume of greenhouse gases you'll be creating as you drive to your next destination because you won't have so much in tow.
Additionally, extending the life of an object you don’t want by giving it to someone else, or donating it to a local thrift store helps the environment in two other ways.
First, you keep an item out of the landfill. Second, by donating those unneeded or unwanted items you're helping fill a gap in the market where a new item won't have to be produced. It takes lots of resources to produce new items, whereas buying used is always an eco-friendly option.
Don’t be pressured into purging anything you actually want to keep though! Otherwise, you’ll just end up buying a replacement when you could’ve enjoyed your original.
3. Plan Your Trash Pickup Ahead of Time
An often underestimated element of moving is scheduling a proper trash pickup. This is an especially important task to take seriously if you don’t want to negatively affect the environment. Make sure you are properly disposing of your trash before you leave, especially when it comes time to rid yourself of any electronics.
Electronics and batteries that aren’t properly disposed of can create big problems in the water and waste systems. Batteries like those from laptop and old cellphones can leach into groundwater, and create big problems for wildlife in your area.
Typically, a city will offer one pick-up a month to take care of your electronics. When you move, you need to plan in advance to get rid of your electronics by that monthly date. That way you're not throwing them away with the wrong trash, creating a bigger problem down the line.
If you miss your township's monthly date to throw away electronics safely, consider going to a big-box electronics store like Best Buy, Apple, or Target. Big electronics stores often have electronics recycling programs that ensure the materials are properly taken care of on a more flexible timeline.
Conclusion
All in all, moving out doesn't have to be a grueling process for you or the environment. If you plan ahead, purge items you don't need, and take advantage of reusable solutions to common problems, you're going to have a great and green move.
