Self-storage is a great way to de-clutter your house and an awfully convenient option for storing those family heirlooms that you can't get rid of but don't want to ever see again. But wouldn't it be even more awesome if your self-storage were an earth-friendly experience? Here are four ways that you and your storage facility can use sustainable packing, recycling, and design practices to help save the earth.
1. Recycling
Although the zero-waste lifestyle isn't for everyone, both you and the storage facility you use can change the world by recycling regularly. Many green self-storage companies promote recycling and re-use by offering slightly used boxes for packing, hosting a collection area for unwanted belongings that will be donated to charity, providing recycling bins alongside trash cans, and educating customers about reusable and recyclable packing materials.
2. Packing
In addition to using either re-usable plastic tubs (or even just opting for slightly used cardboard boxes rather than brand new ones), you can help the earth by selecting biodegradable packing materials, recyclable or reusable materials, or those that have recycled content in them. Alternative packing materials that can replace packing peanuts and bubble wrap include:
- Crumpled brown paper or brown paper bags
- Soft storage items such as clothing
- Special biodegradable packing peanuts
- Shredded paper (such as office papers)
- Crumpled plastic grocery bags, which can be re-used over and over
3. Green energy
Green energy sources are becoming more common, and self-storage facilities that care about the environment sometimes choose to use these sources. Some go even further and install solar panels on the roof, producing their own energy and thereby becoming more self-sufficient in addition to reducing pollution.
4. Green building
Building design is a sophisticated field, and you certainly don't need to check every aspect of the facility design to determine if you're using a green facility. However, a company with a strong sense of environmental responsibility may either design a earth-friendly building or re-use an existing building to save manufacturing pollution and energy use. They may also upgrade the building to make it more energy-efficient and reduce its ecological footprint. For example, they may install a cool or light-colored roof, replace the lighting with more energy-efficient options, and use motion sensors to make sure lights are only on when someone is in the room.
Use these four aspects of green self-storage to help you determine if your experience has been an eco-friendly one. If you decide it has not, these points will help you find out how you can improve it.
Visit various storage companies, like Oakland Ave Storage, to find one that fits your needs.
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