In April 2025, CAM asked folks to fill out a “CAM Quickie” survey on their Green Initiatives.  As one respondent mentioned, “Our company needs to be more sustainable.  We have only touched on the low hanging fruit.”  While it is challenging in our industry to be completely green, CAM members are clearly trying to do the best.  As we know, even small steps can collectively drive significant environmental progress.  Maybe there’s an idea here that you can implement in your own shop.

Green Initiatives Survey Snapshot

Here’s a snapshot of where CAM members were at in terms of Green Initiatives.

Do you implement sustainable practices in your operations? (For example, eco-friendly materials, fuel-efficient vehicles, recycling or carbon offset programs.)

Yes 44%

No 22%

We Try 28%

Don’t Know 6%

Do you optimize routes and logistics to reduce emissions, minimize travel distances and fuel consumption?

Yes 56%

No 0%

We Try 39%

Don’t Know 5%

Do you offer any programs for recycling or reusing moving supplies?

Yes 50%

No 17%

We Try 33%

Don’t Know 0%

Waste Management & Sustainable Moving Practices

Cartons, Bins & Moving Supplies

CAM members are rethinking moving materials to reduce waste.  Reusable cartons in good condition are broken down and offered free to customers.  Members use dedicated plastic bins for office relocations, provide returned supplies for low-income moves, and collect used packing materials for recycling plants.  Innovations like HexcelPack—a sustainable alternative to plastic bubble wrap—are gaining traction, alongside reusable padding.  Post-move customer pick-up services ensure materials like cardboard and packing supplies are diverted from landfills.

Company Recycling Programs

Recycling is a cornerstone of CAM member initiatives.  Some members maintain clearly marked bins for paper, plastic, and cardboard, with some offering gift cards to incentivize recycling. Partnerships with junk bin businesses ensure proper disposal or having dedicated dumpsters in the yard to streamline material separation are ways that some members are prioritizing recyclables and minimizing trips to the landfill.

Donations

Members are redirecting usable items from decommissions, office and commercial projects to communities in need.  Partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, local food banks and women’s shelters allow these goods to find second lives.  Members indicated that they donate used blankets and cartons in good condition to groups in need.

Waste Disposal

Waste is returned to warehouses for proper management, often through partnerships with Waste Management.  This ensures compliance with environmental standards and reduces the ecological footprint of moving operations.

Driving & Transportation

Fuel efficiency and route optimization are key.  Members use quad-cab vehicles to reduce fuel consumption and employ GPS systems to monitor driver performance.  Carpooling is also employed by some members.  These tools help minimize idle time and optimize routes, cutting emissions and operational costs.

Office Practices

CAM members’ offices are embracing sustainability through energy-efficient upgrades.  LED lighting, smart thermostats, and solar panels reduce electricity use, while paperless workflows and e-signature tools like DocuSign slash paper waste.  Reusable mugs and utensils replace single-use plastics, and e-waste recycling programs ensure responsible disposal of electronics.  Additional measures include reducing HVAC and lighting usage during off-hours.

Other Comments

“We are unaware of any programs for recycling plastic bags and used tape.  It is a huge waste, and we would love to have a way to recycle those items.”

“There aren't enough companies that provide products like eco-friendly packing materials or eco-friendly trucks.  In transportation, it is difficult to be eco-friendly.”