Do you want to create a more sustainable office? Or maybe you’d like to save some money by going green? Whatever the answer is, there are some proven ways to make your office space more environmentally friendly. From setting up paperless meetings to embracing natural light over artificial light, you have options at your disposal.
We should strive to live up to our environmental responsibilities. Creating an environmentally friendly office leads to positive change for everybody. It also helps with the bottom line!
This article will start you on the path to a greener office.
1. Energy Efficiency
Make some changes to the office. Replace standard incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LED bulbs. Implement rules about when lights need to be turned on. For example, an everything off at night policy is a great way to not only go green but also save some money. You can also compost kitchen scraps and install low-flow toilets.
Purchase electronics that can be recycled easier and that make better use of energy. Install sensors and timers for office lighting. This will reduce energy consumption and costs. Paint the office with lighter colors; they will reflect daylight better and reduce the need for overhead lighting.
2. Renewable Energy
Make the switch from a traditional energy company to one that draws its power from renewable sources like wind and solar. You can also install solar panels on the roof and implement recycling policies. Consider using information servers that use green hosting. Every little bit helps.
3. Paperless
One of the best ways to reduce your office’s carbon footprint is to avoid paper whenever possible. Use digital files instead of paper ones. Review documents on computer screens instead of on paper. Try to print less paperwork in general and switch to e-filing for vendors. Although mailing items can be unavoidable, you can purchase eco-friendly and reusable envelopes.
4. Office Supplies
Purchase office products that are friendly towards the environment. Did you know that in the U.S. four million pens are disposed of every day? Stock the office with reusable pens. And while going paperless is a better option, use 100% recycled paper when you can’t avoid it. Use the printers’ eco mode and use refillable ink cartridges. Use non-toxic cleaning materials. Avoid plastic and opt for wood or metal desks and chairs. Look for products that are made from post-consumer content. Finally, consider appointing a waste auditor. This person can help determine what is being thrown away needlessly, what items can be recycled and other areas that could be greener.
5. Carbon Neutral
Making your office go carbon neutral is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the environment. This is achieved by purchasing carbon credits to offset the amount of carbon released by your office. A carbon offset can be significantly easier than other actions. Start by measuring your carbon footprint. Then, look to purchase credits through established companies.
6. Greener Office
Place indoor plants throughout the office. They act as filters for all of the pollutants inside the office space. They can also help cool the air. When plants transfer water into the air by a process called transpiration, they can act as a natural air conditioner. This will keep the office cooler on hot summer days and reduce the need for using the AC.
7. Green Commuting
Did you know that we spend about 47 hours per year commuting in rush hour traffic? That amounts to 23 billion gallons of gas wasted. Encourage employees to reduce emissions by walking, biking or carpooling to work. Create incentives for using public transportation. Consider offering work from home opportunities or even some home office days. These will significantly cut down the use of energy at the office.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that a greener office is a happier office. Don’t you agree?
These are just some ideas on how to create a more environmentally friendly space. Do you have any others? Let us know in the comments!
Sophie is a passionate writer and a blogger. She started freelancing as a way to connect to other people, to reach to their hearts and make a difference with her word. Her blog was born out of a pure desire to connect… to have the freedom of writing what really matters, what actually makes a difference.