10 Green Hacks for an Eco-Minded Move
In recent years, going green has become part of daily life whether business or personal. Across the mobility industry, there are initiatives at the program level specifically designed with sustainability in mind, focusing on elements like carbon footprint reduction in relocation. But, for those on the move who want to further their green efforts, check out our 10 hacks everyone should know for an eco-minded relocation.
The Cambridge English Dictionary defines sustainability as “the quality of causing little or no damage to the environment and therefore able to continue for a long time.” From this perspective, sustainability is already second nature to many of us in our daily lives. We may recycle paper, compost our leftovers, manage energy consumption, or donate our unwanted clothes.In recent years, increasing numbers of companies are also recognizing the importance of sustainability in the context of business as well. Beyond overall moral, ethical and environmental benefits, sustainability also delivers positive strategic effects too. Within this broad topic, the need for sustainability initiatives in the mobility space is also recognized, measured, and prioritized. For example, many companies have incorporated Discard and Donate programs into their mobility policies which help reduce the weight of household goods shipments. And some companies are allowing their employees to rent electric vehicles during relocation-related trips to reduce the carbon footprint of the move.
But what can a relocating employee do to further these efforts? Turns out – the answer is plenty! Let’s take a look at these 10 green hacks every eco-minded relocating employee should know for their move.1. Pack with Purpose.
If something doesn’t spark joy, don’t move it to your new location. Even if a Discard & Donate program is not offered by your employer, sort through clothes and small household items to determine what you no longer want or need. Don’t forget that box sitting in the corner of your closet that hasn’t been opened since the last time you moved. Donate or sell as much as possible before the mover shows up.2. Give Your Couch a Comeback.
If you have furniture that you would like to donate, check with local charities regarding the types of furniture that they will accept. Most require furniture to be in good condition, and won’t accept certain items such as china hutches or used mattresses. Once you have the items ready to be donated, pick-ups can often be arranged by local charities.
3. Plan a Pantry Exit Strategy.
Since movers can’t move perishable food, contact your local Food Bank to determine what can and can’t be donated. If something can’t be donated to a Food Bank, consider sharing with your family or neighbors so items don’t go to waste. Consider donating any non-perishable food through Move for Hunger’s program.4. Be a Wrap Star.
Ask your mover about the types of packing materials they will use, and whether they use reusable crates/cartons or recyclable boxes. Similarly, ask them to use reusable or recyclable materials to cover your floors.5. Map Your Way to Green.
When booking relocation-related travel (within your company’s guidelines), look for lower-emission flights. You can calculate the CO2 emissions of your planned flight here if it’s not available on the airline’s website. If driving, take the most direct route to reduce emissions. Travel when traffic is lighter to reduce gas engine idling time and the stress of sitting in traffic.6. Downsize Your Carbon Footprint.
During your home search, look for energy-efficient housing that is well insulated and as air-tight as possible. Consider the size of your housing; a home with a smaller footprint is more energy efficient. If you have an electric vehicle, or plan on buying one, ensure that new housing has a charger or explore if you can have one installed. Moving is also a great time to consider lifestyle changes such as switching from single-use plastics to refillable bottles.7. Future-perfect your new commute.
Explore commuting options in your new community during your home search. Consider establishing your new residence close to schools, shopping, work and public transportation. Plan to walk, bicycle or take the bus instead of driving, when possible.8. Go green when you clean.
Need to clean your old and/or your new home? Use environmentally friendly cleaning products such as vinegar and baking soda. Ditch the paper towels for Swedish dishcloths or microfiber cloths. Turn any worn clothing that can’t be donated into cleaning rags.9. Create a bin-win situation.
Once settled in your new location, research the local recycling requirements including whether yard and/or food waste needs to be separated out. If your municipality does not have a separate food waste pick-up, check to see if neighborhood or community composting is available. Composting at home can also be a great way to turn food waste into fertilizer for your garden.10. Make It Rain (Responsibly).
Check into the communities’ local requirements to install a rain barrel to capture and divert rainwater from the sewer system. Some communities will have rain barrel giveaways or may provide them at a discount.It’s not always easy being green, but it sure is worth it! Being environmentally mindful during a relocation can take a bit of effort, but the result is worthwhile, leading to a more sustainable planet. And who doesn’t want to help us all continue for a long time?