Moving to a new location can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. However, it can also generate a significant amount of waste that ends up in landfills. From packing materials to unwanted items, moving projects can produce a considerable amount of waste.
But with a few simple tips, you can make your next move more environmentally friendly and reduce the impact on the planet.
Americans don’t like to stay in one place for their entire lives. The Census Bureau estimates that the average American moves an average of 11.7 times per year. While moving can be an exciting experience, it can also generate a significant amount of waste.
How can you move your next project without creating a large amount of waste for the local landfills? By following these ten tips, you can make your next move easier for you and better for the environment.
Here are ten tips to reduce waste when moving
Don’t buy moving boxes
If you know months ahead that you will be moving on a certain date, avoid buying moving boxes. You can either give your boxes to others who are moving soon or cut them down and recycle them. Additionally, some stores and businesses may be willing to give you boxes they would otherwise discard.
Don’t buy packing paper
Instead of buying packing paper, use old newspapers or your towels and tee-shirts to pack your breakables. This method not only saves money but also repurposes items you may have otherwise thrown away.
Pack clothes in duffel bags and suitcases
You can save space and boxes by packing your clothes in your duffel bags and suitcases. You can also fill your drawers with odd and ended items, which will help you save on boxes and make the move more organized.
Choose a moving service that uses fuel-efficient trucks
Look for a moving service that uses fuel-efficient trucks and can help you recycle boxes. Some companies may also offer reusable moving supplies, such as plastic containers, to further reduce waste.
Use biodegradable packing peanuts
Protect fragile items with packing peanuts, but make sure to get starch-based varieties that are biodegradable. These materials will break down over time and not contribute to long-term environmental damage.
Properly dispose of hazardous materials
Many of your non-recyclable items can be dangerous to the environment. Paint, chemicals, automotive supplies, fertilizer, and batteries all need to be properly disposed of. Check with your local waste management or recycling center to determine the proper disposal method for these items.
Use reusable storage containers
Instead of using cardboard boxes, look for reusable storage crates or bins that you can use for future moves or storage needs. These containers are more durable than cardboard and can be reused multiple times, reducing the number of boxes you need to purchase or dispose of.
Use post-consumer recycled bubble wrap
Bubble wrap can’t all be recycled. However, you can overcome this problem by selecting a variety made of post-consumer recycled material. This option reduces the amount of plastic waste generated by your move.
Use recycled paint
Before you leave your old home, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint. If you have the opportunity, use recycled latex paint. This option reduces waste and helps protect the environment.
Have a yard sale and donate
Don’t toss anything you don’t need. Instead, have a yard sale to sell items that are still in good condition. You might be surprised to see what other people find valuable in what you consider junk. Additionally, donate items that you don’t sell to charity. This option reduces waste and helps others in need.
Read Also: Cut your Storage Costs in Half with Dumpster Rental
After you arrive at your new address, learn about the available recycling programs in your area and start to recycle your moving supplies. Some moves are more complicated than others. If you need to dispose of large items, consider renting a residential dumpster that is the right size to meet your needs. These tips will help you reduce waste when moving and help protect the environment.
Final Thought
Moving can be a challenging and stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be an environmentally harmful one. By following these ten tips, you can reduce waste and make your move more eco-friendly. From not buying moving boxes to properly disposing of hazardous materials, there are many ways you can make your move better for the environment. Remember to also learn about the available recycling programs in your new area and start recycling your moving supplies as soon as you arrive. By taking these steps, you can help reduce waste and preserve the environment for future generations.
Professional Dumpster Rental Tulsa OK is dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring that your waste disposal and junk removal needs are met efficiently and effectively. We offer same-day service, so you don’t have to wait for days to have your dumpster delivered or picked up. Our dumpsters are designed to be user-friendly, and we’ll work with you to make sure that you understand how to use them safely and efficiently.
