Green Moving Guide: How to Minimize Your Carbon Footprint During Your Next Move

Moving to a new place is an exciting time but it also can create a huge environmental impact. From the emissions from transportation to the garbage generated during the packing process and even unpacking moving could create carbon emissions. At CityMove we are committed to making your move easy but also sustainable. Here's our complete guide to reduce the impact on the environment during every move.

1. Declutter responsibly

Before packing, make time to clear out and declutter. Sell, donate, or recycle items that you don't need anymore. This not only reduces your burden, but also guarantees that the items you don't want find an appropriate home rather than going to a dump.

Tips:

• Donate furniture, clothing and appliances to local charities.
• Sell your products on marketplaces or have an auction at a garage.
• Recycle old electronics with certified programs for e-waste.

2. Select eco-friendly packaging materials

Beware of single-use plastic and go for eco-friendly packaging materials. A lot of traditional packing materials include bubble wrap, foam peanuts are not recyclable.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives:

• Use packing peanuts that are biodegradable.
• Take fragile items and wrap them in linens, towels, or even reusable blankets.
• Consider recycling cardboard boxes, or rent reusable moving containers.
• Make use of paper tape instead the plastic tape used to pack your bags.

3. Take a more organized approach to packing and reduce trips

A well-organized packing process can cut down on your number of journeys you need to make for moving, decreasing the use of fuel.
The Art of Packing Smartly:

• Utilize every inch of space in the box and fill in gaps by filling them with soft items.
• Place heavier items in smaller boxes to prevent the waste of space.
• Label boxes clearly to prevent unneeded rummaging around and repackaging.

4. Select the Green Moving Company

When choosing a company to move with be sure to inquire about their sustainability practices. CityMove is one example. CityMove is committed to reducing its environmental impact through optimizing routes and maintaining vehicles that are fuel efficient.
What Questions Should You Ask Your Movers

• Do you drive hybrid or fuel-efficient vehicles?
• Do you provide reusable packaging materials?
• How do you deal with the waste that is generated during moving?

5. Plan Efficient Transportation

The less journeys your moving truck needs to take the more efficient. Work with your movers to combine loads and follow the most efficient routes.
Pro Tip:

• Plan your move for times that are not busy to avoid traffic and cut down on the amount of idle time.

6. Recycle Hazardous Materials Using Care

Things like paints cleaners, cleaning products, and batteries can harm the environment if they are not disposed of in a safe manner. Be sure to check the guidelines of your local council for secure disposal.
Common Hazardous Items:

• Old paint cans
• Cleansers for the home
• Car batteries
• Pesticides

7. Install Your Home Sustainable

After you've moved in ensure sustainability is a top priority within your new home.
Eco-friendly Habits to Begin:

• Install energy efficient lighting and appliances.
• Install a recycling facility within your home.
• Use green cleaning products.

8. Offset Your carbon footprint

If you want to add an eco-friendly touch Consider offsets for carbon emissions of your next move by donating to environmentally-friendly initiatives, such as the planting of trees as well as renewable energy-related projects. Many organizations provide carbon calculators that can estimate and offset carbon emissions.

Why should you choose CityMove as your Green Move?

At CityMove we're committed to providing environmentally-friendly moving services. Our team has been trained in sustainable practices for moving and are constantly seeking new ways to decrease the environmental impact of our operations. No matter if it's moving within Auckland or moving to a different area, we're here to assist you in making your move environmentally responsible.

Let’s Move Green Together! Ready to make your move eco-friendly? Contact CityMove today at 0800 126 128 or email us at info@citymove.co.nz to learn more about our green moving solutions. Together, we can make your next move a step toward a sustainable future!