When moving into a new home, you may be concerned about the amount of waste accumulated in the process, your increased carbon footprint due to transportation, and other ways the move could adversely affect the Earth. These green moving tips will help you reduce your environmental impact and make your relocation more sustainable.
Limit Packing Supplies and Boxes
One of the best green moving tips New Orleans residents can follow is to minimize the use of new packing materials. Reuse containers you already own, like plastic bins, shoe boxes, and other household items. You can also check with friends or local businesses for spare boxes. If you must purchase new boxes, consider buying eco-friendly options made from recycled materials. For more tips on sustainable packing, visit Earth911.
Donate or Recycle Unused Items
Downsize before you move! By donating or recycling unwanted items, you reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Many charitable organizations accept gently used household items, clothing, sports equipment, and more. You can even arrange for a pickup, making it more convenient to donate. To find local donation centers near you, check out Goodwill or The Salvation Army. Reducing the weight of your load not only decreases waste but also minimizes the number of trips needed to move your belongings, ultimately saving fuel.
Pack Your Kitchen Last
To avoid unnecessary waste, make sure to keep essential kitchen items accessible throughout your move. Instead of relying on take-out and disposable items, use what you already own to prepare simple meals. This reduces your reliance on plastic utensils and paper plates, which can create a significant amount of waste. If you’re looking for some sustainable kitchen alternatives, visit Eco-friendly Living for ideas on how to reduce waste in your kitchen.
Make One Big Trip
While it may seem cheaper to make multiple trips with a personal vehicle, this increases the environmental impact of your move. The extra travel results in more fuel consumption and higher emissions. Instead, hire a professional moving company that can handle everything in one trip. Moving.com offers helpful advice on finding reputable movers to make your relocation as efficient as possible.
If you’re moving in New Orleans or across the country, you can rely on professional home moving services from Lee Moving & Storage, Inc. to help you facilitate a move without the extra waste. Request a quote online or call us at (504) 254-2950 to get answers to your questions about how we can help take the stress out of your move.