If you are moving home or offices and want the move to be more environmentally friendly, you can start by sourcing eco-friendly packing materials.
Compostable packing materials naturally decompose into the earth if disposed of in landfills. They are usually made from plant materials. The most common type of compostable material is paper made from wood pulp, but there is also packaging available that is made from corn, wheat straw or bamboo.
Plastic is non-compostable so should generally be avoided for packing, although some plastics can be recycled. Cellulose is made from hemp, cotton and wood and is a biodegradable sustainable plastic alternative. You can also buy packing materials that are made from recycled plastic. Sourcing used cardboard boxes is a good idea.
Corrugated cardboard packaging made from trees is an alternative to plastic bubble wrap. Furthermore, Glassine is a transparent paper made from wood pulp, and can be used to wrap items without hiding what they are.
Packaging made from corn starch is more commonly being used as a compostable alternative to plastic for food containers. You can buy corn starch mailing bags suitable for holding small items, but they are somewhat expensive.
Sustainable mushroom packing is made from fungi mycelium. Mushroom packaging bottle cases are good for protecting bottles of fine wine during a move.
Bio-based foam such as green cell foam made from corn can be used for protecting fragile items, though it can be difficult to source.
At Merseyside Movers & Storers, we are a Liverpool removal company that aims to make moving more sustainable.
