Ernst & Haas Management Co Blog

[caption id="attachment_1706" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Moving? Make sure you dispose of unwanted items in a matter that is environmentally friendly."][/caption] There's no if's, and's or but's about it - moving is a daunting task. Beyond finding a place to move to - and recruiting people to help you do so - is the never-ending task of having to sort through all of your belongings and pack. Although time consuming, this step in the moving process can actually be pretty beneficial: 1. You get to clean out your things and decide what it is you really use and need, versus what's just collecting dust, and 2. The more you sort, the less you have to actually pack. But what happens to the pile of items that you no longer need or use? Donate them? Trash them? Burn them? (Just kidding, that's not safe!). Here's a list of how to properly dispose certain items - of course, in an environmentally responsible way: 1. Televisions - Months ago, Best Buy announced that it's dropping the $10 fee for recycling old TVs. Televisions and other electronic waste can't be tossed in landfills, but not all e-waste recycling is actually environmentally safe. Some e-waste is shipped to developing countries where impoverished people break down and sort it without any environmental or personal safeguards, so it's relieving to know that companies such as Best Buy make sure to recycle it properly. 2. Tires - Televisions, tires, and mattresses all seem to be commonly dumped items in parks, alleys and on curbs. It's no wonder: No matter where you live, these items usually cost a few bucks to properly dispose of them. The upside is that used tires can still be very useful. They may lose their treads, but they are nothing if not endurable, which makes them excellent candidates for reuse in basketball courts, shoes and even as new tires. 3. Toxic Household Chemicals - Most homes contain something that the state or federal government considers toxic. These items - for obvious reasons - can't be thrown away in the normal trash or flushed down the drain. Check local regulations to see which items are considered toxic in your area. Your state or local municipality website can direct you to recycling locations. 4. Mattresses - Despite the fact that thousands of old mattresses get dumped in landfills every year, there are still very few recycling facilities available for this ubiquitous behemoth. If you have an unwanted mattress, first research local regulations about donations or disposal. Research 1800RECYCLING or EARTH911 to find out if you are lucky enough to have a recycling option near you. 5. Household Goods - From silverware and bedding, to books and clothing, used household goods that are still in good working condition can go on to live another lifetime with someone else. Box us reusable items and deliver to a local charity. Or, if you have larger items like a dresser, table or sofa, request a pickup. These types of donations are often tax deductible, so be sure to ask for a receipt. Finally, Once you've moved into a new place, break down your boxes and put them out for the next recycling pickup. Or, of the boxes are still in good shape, they can be offered on Craigslist to save a stranger the trouble of collecting their own. If you or anyone you know are looking to move, be sure to visit our website - www.MyRentalList.com - for a FREE vacancy list!