If you are preparing for a move, you may be wondering how you can make your upcoming relocation more eco-friendly. There are many simple and practical ways to lessen the impact moving can have on the environment. Consider the following tips to help you reduce your carbon footprint for a more sustainable, environmentally friendly move.

1. Donate, Gift, or Sell

One of the first things most people do when they prepare for a move is to purge and declutter their home. As you purge items, consider donating, gifting, or selling them rather than throwing things away. This is a great way to recycle your unwanted items rather than throwing them out.

2. Use Household Items as Packing Materials

Before heading to the store to purchase boxes and packing materials, look around the house for ways to pack and protect your items. Suitcases and plastic bins can be great for packing, while bedding, sheets, towels, pillows, newspapers, and old magazines are great for protecting fragile items. You can also ask family or friends who have recently moved if you can reuse their boxes and packing materials. You also have the option of recycling boxes from grocery stores or liquor stores. This is one of the simplest ways to make a big impact on the environment.

3. Use Biodegradable Packing Peanuts

Packing peanuts are important because they help fill the empty spaces in your boxes, preventing items from getting jostled and broken. However, you want to avoid styrofoam packing peanuts and opt for a biodegradable option instead. Biodegradable packing peanuts are made from corn, wheat, or potato starch, which is much easier to manufacture and can also be composted when you are done with them.

4. Opt For Bubble Wrap Made of Paper

If you run out of towels, bedding, and dish rags, you may need another material to wrap dishes and glassware to keep it protected. Opt for paper bubble wrap instead of plastic, as this is made from 100% recyclable material and won’t end up in a landfill.

5. Recycle Boxes and Bins After Your Move

Instead of disposing of boxes, packing materials, and plastic bins after your move, try donating them instead. There’s a good chance someone you know could use these materials themselves. If not, consider offering them for free on Facebook or looking for a place where you can recycle them.

6. Hire Eco-Friendly Moving Services

Hiring a moving company or portable storage company that cares about the environment is another excellent way to have a green move. These companies prioritize eco-friendly practices such as using recycled materials, using environmentally friendly equipment, and driving electric vehicles. Look for companies in your area that specialize in eco-friendly moving services.