Fortunately these days more and more people realize how important it is to be nature friendly and to make our planet a better place. Going green is becoming a way of life. We’re going green at home, at the way we shop and we’re driving more fuel efficient cars. But have you thought about going green at work?
Here are a few practical things you can start doing today. It’s important to mention this list is just a start. There are many, many other ways to go green.
Use energy wisely. Use compact fluorescent bulbs at your work place. Power down your computers when not in use. Turn all your lights off when you leave at the end of the day. Don’t forget about your computer, your monitor, your printer, your photocopier and other equipment. Don’t use air conditioning if the heating is on. Interesting fact: office computers waste one billion dollars worth of electricity each year by being left on when they are not in use.
Reduce your paper waste. Print only when it is necessary. Use digital files. Reuse mailers, old documents for faxes, scrap paper and drafts and recycle papers after use. Review any documents online instead of printing them out. Reuse envelopes by using stickers. Interesting fact: the average U.S. office worker goes through 10,000 sheets of copy paper a year.
Use minimum artificial light. When sun is out, open your blinds and enjoy daylight. If your desk is far from a window, move it towards a window (when possible), it helps cut down electricity use - saving the environment and money.
“Eat Green”. Bring a ceramic mug and reusable knife, fork and spoon. So you don’t have to use disposable cups and plastic cutlery. Bring your home-made lunch in a plastic reusable container instead of aluminum foil and plastic bags. It is much healthier, cheaper and “greener”.
Maximize telecommuting. There are many computer devices these days that allow us minimize business trips. Consider attending a video or telephone conference. If you have to attend in person, use public transportation when possible. For example, travelling by train is much better than taking a car or a plane (less emission per passenger).
There are certain things at work that you can’t change, but you can talk to your manager and share your ideas:
“Buy Green” - go for “Green Options” in the products you company buy, develop a green purchasing policy, invest in energy-saving computers, monitors, and printers.
“Be Green” - donate unwanted products and furniture; send company updates through email instead of on paper; recycle office paper, empty ink and toner cartridges and other materials in your office.
“Sell Green” - suggest your clients to buy “Green options” of the products you sell, explaining them the benefits of it.
Enjoy eco-friendly lifestyle in all areas of your life. Encourage your employer and co-workers do the same. And remember, it all starts with you. Make a difference today!
Great ideas for going green! So inspiring to read about the different ways that businesses can use in an effort to be more green. I am part of an online book club and this month we are going to read "Greening Your Small Business" by by Jennifer Kaplan. Here is the link in case some of your readers may want to join us in reading this book and discussing this important topic.
Fortunately these days more and more people realize how important it is to be nature friendly and to make our planet a better place. Going green is becoming a way of life. We’re going green at home, at the way we shop and we’re driving more fuel efficient cars. But have you thought about going green at work?
