A greener workplace can be a healthier and more productive place to work. Whether your office is green already or you are still trying to find a solution for you, here are some helpful tips that can lay the foundation for going green in the workplace.
More work, less energy.
For most of us, the computer is our most important tool. Optimizing the settings on your computer and other devices can be a great energy saver. Use energy-saving settings and more sure that you shut them off when you leave; sleep or standby mode will still draw power. And of course, turn off the lights when they aren’t needed.
Digitize
It is surprising that despite all the technological advances in our society today companies are still consuming huge amounts of paper. Even worse, those huge amounts aren’t even being recycled. The more work that you do online, the less paper you use and need. Keeping files on computers will also cut down on the file cabinets in your office, freeing up tons of space.
Be cautious of recycled paper
When buying recycled paper, look for paper with a high percentage of post-consumer content and a minimum of chlorine bleaching, even recycled paper uses a lot of energy water and chemicals. When using real paper, be sure to print on both sides of the paper and use misprints as notepaper.
Go green while going to work
American workers spend an average of 47 hours per year commuting through rush hour traffic. This adds up to 3.7 billion hours and 23 billion gallons of gas wasted in traffic each year. By carpooling, using public transportation, biking/walking, we can reduce how much time and money we are wasting.
Green tools
It is possible to buy recycled pens and pencils as well as biodegradable soaps and cleaners and recycled paper towels. Buy these in bulk and reduce shipping and packaging waste.
Lunch time
Bring your lunch in a reusable container is the greenest way to eat. If you do decide to order food elsewhere, ask coworkers to join you and place one large order. If you go out to eat, walk or bike there instead of driving.
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