Lessen your environmental impact when moving
by limiting the amount of waste that you generate. Packing materials are a big contributor to the environmental impact of a move; however, they are necessary to get the job done.
Simply by being aware of the greener options and choices you have when it comes to packing materials, you can plan and achieve a greener move, and even save some money along the way!
1. Reuse cardboard boxes
You can reuse cardboard boxes and other packaging materials, such as bubble wrap and packing paper. If you have saved the boxes for your larger items and electronics, then these are ideal, as they are likely to come with the appropriate internal packaging to protect the items as well.
Check the durability of boxes, making sure that there are no weak spots. Ask family and friends for their used boxes and materials ahead of your move.
There are now a number of online suppliers of used cardboard boxes. If you need to purchase new packing boxes,choose products made from recycled material. Also, look out for cartons that are glued rather than stapled, as gluing makes them 100% biodegradable. The higher-quality, double-walled boxes tend to be much more robust, so these may be reused after your move.
2. Try reusable plastic crates
Plastic packing crates or containers present an environmentally-sustainable option, as they are 100% reusable, so waste is drastically limited. Reusable containers do not require packing tape, something that can’t be recycled and takes a very long time to decompose. Crates may purchased outright or hired by the week.
When hiring packing crates, they are normally delivered and collected by the supplier from local depots. Crates are easily stackable with lockable lids, offering durable storage and security throughout your move – perfect also if your belongings are going into storage.
3. Limit the quantity of packing material used
The less stuff you have to move, the less packing material you’ll need. Achieve this by getting rid of unwanted things before your move. Certain items may be suitable for sale, so e-Bay is a good option here.
If you want to sell more locally, posting adverts in your local paper, local online networks, your work noticeboard, or local shops can be effective. Alternatively, you could hold a garage sale or car boot sale. Other items could be donated to local charities or to friends, relatives or neighbours.
Just stopping to think about the waste that you could be creating as a result of your move, and the steps that you could take to limit it, is a good starting point.
In the end, the best course of action you can follow for a greener move is to do the best that you can do with the resources that you have.
For further information, go to www.pickdropgo.co.uk
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