Environment needs our full attention. Not only we can take steps in our homes to save resources, energy and money, and to ensure proper rubbish removal, but we can also do the same in our workplaces. Each company or small business can be more environmentally aware and take action to have greener offices. When a company is not using resources efficiently it is creating unnecessary waste. For example, simply switching to recycled paper and having paper recycling bins is a huge change that has a number of benefits. Some of them include saving money, appealing to green customers, making connections with other business that are environmentally friendly, have less impact on the Mother Nature, etc. Therefore, if you still haven’t done anything concerning this concept, you can start today and green your workplace in a few simple but effective steps.
Decrease energy consumption
The fact is that computers, office appliances and other office equipment consume a lot of energy. Each year a demand for energy consumption increases. In order to prevent this, each and every of us can do the following:
- Purchase green office equipment
There are appliances and other equipment we use in our offices that use more energy than needed, in comparison to energy efficient models. Therefore, when buying printer, computer, laptop, monitor or fax, it is recommended you buy models with eco-friendly features, including fax machines that are able to scan and send double-sided copies or printers that print on both sides.
- Buy fluorescent light bulbs
Did you know that old incandescent bulbs use over 60% more energy than the fluorescent light bulbs? So, next time you go shopping for light bulbs, save money and energy by choosing fluorescent ones. Not only that they consume less electricity but they also last 13 times more than incandescent bulbs. Additionally, you can open your curtains and blinds and have some free light in.
- Turn off your appliances
When not using them, turn off your computer and other office equipment. The easiest way is to unplug them but you can also buy a surge protector with an on/off switch. Other items that draw power when they are plugged in are battery charges. When the batteries are charged, unplug them and prevent unnecessary wasting of energy. Also, did you know that screensavers do not actually save energy? They consume energy. Blank screen will do just fine.
- Travelling
You can make your business travel greener and minimize them by using telecommuting tools. Using hybrid car rental is also a great solution. When staying in a hotel, choose the one that is green-focused. In addition, when travelling to work, suggest your employees to opt for bicycles and encourage them to use public transportation instead of their cars by providing travel benefits. Another great idea is telecommuting or videoconference. Telecommuting enables employees to work from home if possible and videoconference is an efficient way to get the work done without travelling to work.
Rubbish removal
According to statistics, one office worker produces a half-pound of paper rubbish a day. It is a big number, isn’t it? We should consume less paper, use recycled paper and make sure that our waste doesn’t end up in landfills.
- Purchase recycled office supplies
Recycled paper costs the same as all-virgin paper. We should practice buying recycled copy paper and other paper products like calendars, envelopes, planners, etc. When it comes to fax machines and printers, ink and leaser toners will save you money. You can give your old toner cartridges for recycling as many stores, as well as other recycling centres, accept them for recycling process. Additionally, you can buy recycled plastic desk organizers, binders and other supplies. Save money while saving environment. Also buy used furniture. And make sure that you recycle e-waste like computers, cell phones, printers etc. Finally, purchase high-quality equipment that will last and not break quickly. This step prevents creating manufacturing waste as you will not have to buy new things.
- Cut down on paper consumption and reuse
It is simple to reduce your paper usage. You can set your printer to print on both sides, use smaller font, put wider margins, etc. Instead of printing instructions or other copies, try using emails for these purposes. But if you really need printed copies, buy a printer which uses vegetable-based inks and recycled paper. Other advantages of using recycled paper include:
- Virgin paper production causes more pollution that recycled
- More bleach, which is a toxin, is used in making virgin paper
- You protect ecosystems and forests
Besides the paper, everything that can be reused in the office, reuse! If you have some appliances, furniture or computer equipment, donate them to schools or shelters. Some people will be more than happy to take them.
- Where does your rubbish go?
There are certain programs that enable you to track down your waste and provide you with reports on strategies used for your own office waste elimination. It is encouraging to learn that you do good things for your environment and that you manage to reduce waste.
In conclusion
You can influence your employees or co-workers and help them think green as well. If you want to an advocate for eco-friendly routines, educate them. You can set up monthly meetings and provide them with information regarding certain standards and procedures.
Simple thinks like posting stickers to remind them to save energy and resources will make them more aware of our impact on environment and ensure safe rubbish removal. Remind them to turn off the light will have more impact than you probably think. Or encourage them to use natural and homemade cleaners instead of commercial ones when cleaning their office space. You can also insist on using filtered water and reusable cups instead of using bottled water. Lastly, office sharing is a great idea if you have employees that do not use their office on a daily basis. You can assign offices based on a schedule and save on furniture, energy, supplies, etc., not to mention the benefits for your environment.