The carbon footprint is the mark that humanity leaves on the planet. It represents the total amount of greenhouse gases that are generated and emitted into the atmosphere. These include carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane and fluorinated gases. Greenhouse gases contribute to warming the planet and increase the greenhouse effect.
What is the greenhouse effect?
This is the process of warming the Earth's surface with the help of greenhouse gases. The increasement of their concentration in the atmosphere leads to greater heating of the lower layers of the atmosphere and, consequently, of the planet. People’s intervention is changing the process of heat absorption and reflection, leading to problematic changes in the Earth's climate. The continued warming of water and the increase in the Earth's temperature by just 2°C will have irreversible consequences.
Our actions can change this dangerous course of events. According to the latest UN conference, climate change can be curbed if a rapid and massive reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the achievement of zero carbon dioxide emissions is undertaken.
What is people’s influence on leaving a carbon footprint?
The main reasons for the greenhouse effect are industrial and manufacturing activities, transport, dumpsites, agriculture and forest fires. Emissions from transport account for a large share of the carbon footprint. This gives food for thought for many to realise how every car leads to negative changes.
If you want to move from one place to another and it involves a long commute, it is unlikely that you would give up because of the increasing greenhouse effect. But you could think about how to do it more sustainably and responsibly. We believe that everyone should take a step towards change. That's the main reason we're sharing a short list of tips for you to implement before, during and after your home move.
Reduce the amount of belongings before moving
Parting with belongings is a step of great importance in any home change. One of the most common moving mistakes is neglecting this process. Fewer belongings mean easier moving and lower fuel costs.
Downsizing your belongings will help make for a more sustainable move. Start by looking at going through everything you own. Divide it into categories: keep, sell, give, donate and recycle.
Make someone happy with your belongings and extend their life. Reusing them also helps reduce the production of new ones and satisfies consumerism to some extent.
Turn recycling into a new habit of yours
As you clear out individual rooms, you'll find things you'll want to throw away directly. When you've collected everything you don't need, categorize it again, but this time, for separate disposal. Find nearby recycling points for old electronics, textiles, paper and plastics. Don't forget to dispose of packing materials from the move separately as well, in the appropriate containers for that.
Recycling is not just about disposing of waste separately. Think of it as a way to reduce your carbon footprint. Turn it into a routine in your new home.
Multipurpose boxes - a way to reduce the carbon footprint
Eco plastic boxes are the new alternative to cartons. Cardboard boxes are commonly used but quickly depreciate. They cannot be used as many times as plastic containers and have a lot of residual materials that are difficult to degrade.
If you want your move to be more sustainable, look for a reusable box rental company. They are easy to stack and can be delivered to your home. Once you move, they are used by another family, and then another, and another. Small changes like this have a positive impact on the environment.
Fill the boxes with sustainable materials
No matter which box option you choose, you'll need to protect the items inside. Before ordering special wrapping paper, consider whether there is anything to replace it with. Kitchen towels can be very useful for wrapping items. Use them to fill empty space in boxes too.
Biodegradable packing peanuts are an eco-friendly alternative not to be overlooked. They are identical to styrofoam in appearance, but are biodegradable. The peanuts are made based on corn starch and are completely degradable in water.
More and more innovative environmentally friendly materials are appearing on the market. You can try out packaging made from mushrooms. Consider switching to these bubble wrap alternatives and reduce your negative impact.
Responsible and sustainable on the road with Movega Removals
Relocation is strongly related to the transportation of your belongings. By planning well and reducing route length, Movega Removals also lowers depreciation on its trucks. Fewer miles also mean a lower amount of exhaust fumes that would be released into the atmosphere.
Vehicle selection is based on the customer's location and needs as well as truck availability. The company sends the closest ones to the location. When appropriate, the company uses vehicles of partners that are in the closest proximity. These essential actions help to lower the damage to the environment.
Part load service is another way in which transport companies reduce their negative impact. Limiting empty truck journeys has a positive effect. The part load option is suitable for you if you have fewer possessions and want to move more sustainably.
In addition to all of the above, at Movega Removals, we have gone paperless - everything, including our contracts and agreements, are issued, signed and certified without the need for paper.
Movega encourages everyone to think about their personal contribution to minimising their overall carbon footprint. We endeavour to 'tread lightly' when shipping internationally within Europe. Trust a responsible company for your move. Learn more about the services we offer by contacting us for a free consultation!