Ways to Make the Office Environmentally Friendly

In today’s disposable economy, it is easy to take the cheap and easy solution to any immediate problem; however, the cheapest road to a solution is not always the best. Whether you need to change a light bulb in an existing office, buy more paper to print a presentation, or restock toilet trees, it is easy to ignore the impact you will have on the environment around you. There are many simple ways to make your office more green. These solutions might seem a bit more expensive at first but the long term benefits can actually save money in the long run.
Saving Energy
Energy costs are a major expense for any home or office and there are some simple ways to help reduce this cost long term. Every office needs light bulbs to stay productive but many offices use inefficient and inexpensive ones. A modern LED light bulb does cost a little more money to buy, although many people don’t realize that the higher immediate cost results in lower energy bills. In addition, modern LED light bulbs will last longer than traditional light bulbs and use less energy. The same rule applies to heating and cooling systems. It is expensive to change a HVAC system and many people wait until it is needed for this reason. When the time comes, whether to change an existing one or looking at new ones for new offices, consider the energy efficient models. They will have a higher price tag, but most high efficiency HVAC systems will tell you on the label how much energy they use. The best way to save money long term usually is a green option that costs a little more up front.
Utilizing Recycled Products
It is easy to go to the local office supply store and purchase items such as printer paper, pens, ink and toner, toilet paper, and break room supplies. Many people look for the cheapest option and purchase it without considering what they are buying. It is worth the time and effort to buy recycled products. It may be slightly more expensive, although it is not always, but has long term benefits. In addition, many companies will give you credit toward a purchase for trading in empty ink and toner cartridges. The companies can refill them and sell at a discounted rate. This is beneficial to you, the consumer, because not only do you get a small discount, you can also buy the refilled recycled product for less money. Finally, going Green has been a trendy thing to do. Many people in your office will appreciate the small effort you or anyone else might make to help the environment. This will make people feel good about their place of employment and raise morale.
Creating an Office Recycling Program
Does your office recycle? If the answer is no, why not? Recycling is a simple thing to do. It is easy to add an area to put unwanted papers beside the trash can. Adding another waste receptacle in the break room for cans and bottles is not particularly expensive but is a great way to help your office go Green. The benefit to office recycling programs goes beyond the environment. It makes people feel like they are doing their part and that they work for a company that cares about the future. In addition, it is a great way to get people involved in something together. If someone at the office is big on recycling it provides them an opportunity to lead a simple but beneficial program that requires fairly little effort and costs very little.
Ensuring Companies are Green
Most major companies do things as cost effectively as possible. In many cases that means importing items from overseas. Overseas companies are not subject to American standards as far as greenhouse gas emissions. Many major companies have made efforts to correct this in the last several years. Organizations, such as Greenguard, offer certifications for products to ensure they are produced with environmentally friendly procedures in place. Do the products you purchase have any type of Green Certification? It is worth looking into, a lot of times products that have certifications are of higher quality. Next time you purchase make sure you know what you are getting, if you are unsure, ask. Most businesses will be happy to provide information such as what type of environmentally friendly certification their products have.
Purchasing Locally Grown Food
Do you know where your food is coming from? Most people see organic but don’t think about the products origin. It is true that a lot of organic and non-organic foods are grown locally, however, some is imported from overseas as well. Take the time to read the signs or even ask at your local market. Many stores will advertise when product is produced locally. Finally, be aware of what farmers markets are around you and what cities or townships have market events. This gives you the opportunity to shop locally and support a small business at the same time. Locally grown fruits and produces are typically fresher and better. When you discover where to buy this product, share it with your coworkers, it will be a fun topic to talk about at the office and everyone wins by buying fresher, locally grown products.
Going Green seems like a lot of work but in reality a few small simple changes is all it takes. What will you do to make a positive impact on the environment at your office? Suggest a recycling program, offer to lead a Green product imitative. Whatever it might be, it is a great feeling to do something to make a positive impact on the world we live in and to share that experience with those around you.
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