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In Quebec, summertime is moving time.
Especially the month of July!
We all know that moving can be expensive and time consuming: packing, cleaning, decorating, etc.
But did you know that it can be bad for the environment?
Here are some tips to reduce the environmental impact of your next move.
First...find the right place
- Is your new place close to work? School? Public transportation? Reducing your daily commute will reduce your greenhouse gas emissions.
- A home that is well situated close to services may cost more up front, but will save you money in transportation, especially it it allows you to go car-free.
- City dwellers, make sure your new place is within walking distance of a car-share service.
- For more information, read about our I get around...my neighbourhood! campaign.
Declutter
Before packing, sort through your belongings. Try to recycle and reuse your extra stuff, rather than just throwing it out.
- Have a garage sale.
- Give to charity.
- Call your municipality to learn how to safely dispose of environmentally hazardous household wastes (paint, expired medications, batteries, etc.) and e-waste (old cell phones, computers, etc.).
- You can also drop off your old office equipment at a Staples or Bureau en Gros store.
- Consult your Yellow Pages™ EcoGuide for more information on the responsible disposal of unwanted items in your area.
Boxes
- Borrow boxes from a friend or ask for some at the supermarket, pharmacy or liquor store. Or rent reusable boxes from a service such as GoBac.
- Wrap your fragile items in old newspapers or clothing, and protect your furniture with thrift store blankets.
Preparing your new home
Could your new place use a good cleaning or a fresh coat of paint?
- Use non-toxic, biodegradable household cleaners.
- Choose environmentally friendly paint (recycled latex or natural paint without volatile organic compounds).
- Use old newspapers to clean your windows and to protect your floor while you paint.
Need to renovate?
- Buy low-flow toilets, faucets and showerheads.
- To improve air quality and prevent mold, install an energy-efficient ventilation system.
- In the kitchen, choose such durable materials as FSC-certified wood or natural stone for cabinets or countertops. Consult your local home builders association for more information on environmentally friendly renovations.
- Read the RONA eco-responsible renovation guide.
An opportunity to increase energy performance
- Ask your electricity provider about savings, rebates or loans for the purchase of ENERGY STAR products, e.g., fridge, lights, thermostats.
- Make sure your doors and windows are well insulated. Seal air leaks. Not only will your home be more comfortable, it will be more energy efficient.
- Ask about home energy evaluation services in your province, e.g., Rénoclimat in Quebec, the Ontario Home Energy Audit and Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses (SEGH).
Transporting your boxes
- It's better to rent one big truck that to make multiple trips in a smaller vehicle.
- Look for bike moving services in your area.
And that Well-earned meal at the end of the day?
- Thank your helpers with a pre-made picnic, featuring local or organic produce.
- Remember: a cold meal (e.g., salads, sandwiches, cheese and spreads) takes less energy to prepare and helps keep your kitchen cool in hot weather.
Are you moving? Don't forget to let us know, so that we can update your member information.
