Sustainable Moving Tips for Your Relocation

What if we told you that moving could be an opportunity to do good for the planet? Yes, even with all the packing and chaos, moving offers a unique chance to go green — by cutting down on waste, reusing materials and recycling, you can help make an impact.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through planning, packing and settling into your new home with minimal waste and maximum eco-consciousness. Let’s make your move as green as the future you could create with Green Mountain Energy powering your home.

The less you move, the fewer resources you'll need. Decluttering can help reduce moving costs and your carbon footprint and may also give your items a second life.

What you can do:

• Donate gently used clothes to organizations like Goodwill or local shelters.
• Recycle old electronics at participating electronics stores, or find a recycling center through Earth911.com.
• Sell or give away items on Facebook Marketplace, Freecycle or local Buy Nothing groups.

• Consider renting reusable moving bins.
• Utilize suitcases, duffel bags and storage totes.
• Wrap fragile items in towels, bedsheets or old newspapers to help avoid using things like plastic bubble wrap.
• Choose compostable packing peanuts for padding.

If you're hiring a moving company, look for: 

• EPA SmartWay-certified companies or consult green business directories.
• Companies using fuel-efficient or electric trucks.
• Options for renting reusable moving bins.
• Carbon offset programs, which can help cancel out the pollution from your move by funding renewable energy projects.

If you're doing it yourself: 

• Maintain speeds between 55 and 65 mph to reduce fuel consumption.
• Ensure tires are properly inflated, and minimize stops or detours.
• Consider renting a fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicle.
• Map out charging stations along your route if you're driving an EV.
• Invest in carbon offset programs.

• Go digital with moving checklists to avoid paper waste.
• Borrow or rent moving equipment.

Recycle or return boxes and packing materials to designated drop-off points. Alternatively, using local community groups, Facebook Marketplace or a nearby Buy Nothing group is a great way to offload boxes to the next neighbor in need.

• Start fresh with a 100% renewable electricity plan from Green Mountain Energy.
• Install LED bulbs, smart thermostats and low-flow water fixtures.
• Use nontoxic cleaning products and reusable cloths.

With thoughtful planning and sustainable choices, your relocation can have a positive impact on the planet. Remember, every small step toward eco-friendly living counts. For more green living tips and to switch to a green energy plan, look no further than Green Mountain Energy. Together, let's power a brighter, cleaner future—one move at a time.