The environment is probably one of the most important topics in the world today.  From energy consumption to resource use and everything in between, more and more people are recognizing the value in reducing their impact on the environment.  So, it should come as no surprise that making your office green is a popular trend.  What can you do to make your office green?  Follow these easy tips.

Green Purchases

When you’re buying office supplies and equipment, think green.

• Buy stationary and other supplies made from recycled materials.
• Look for credible green certification (like Energy Star or EcoLogo) on your supplies and equipment.
• Ask your supplier about their environmentally friendly products.
• Make sure to consolidate equipment and supply purchases to reduce packaging materials and energy used for delivery.
• Consider buying refurbished or used furniture and equipment to reduce environmental impact.  You might even find opportunities for supply and equipment exchange in your community.
• Donate lightly used equipment and furniture to charitable organizations.
• Promote employee use of eco-friendly transportation like biking or busing with incentive programs, but especially when travelling for business purposes.

Energy Conservation

You can also make efforts to conserve energy in your office.

• Conduct an energy audit in your office to find easy ways to cut your energy costs.  You might find many simple upgrades (e.g. improving air sealing and installing efficient light bulbs) to reduce energy waste.
• Turn off your office and bathroom lights when they are not in use – consider installing motion sensors to automatically turn lights on and off in rooms.
• Turn off technology such as computers and copiers when they are not in use.  Utilize the sleep mode on equipment as an easy way to implement an “off-when-not-in-use policy.”
• Consider upgrading your building to incorporate green power sources such as solar paneling.
• Reduce your heating and cooling costs by turning off HVAC systems during off hours.  Also, don’t heat offices or meeting rooms when they’re not in use.

Reduce Waste

You know the old saying “reduce, reuse, recycle.”  Well, it’s time to put your money where your mouth is and practice waste reduction.

• Conduct a waste audit to see how you can reduce waste – can you recycle or reuse paper?  Can you share office supplies so less material is needed to supply your office?  Get creative and reduce your waste!
• Institute a recycling program if one isn’t in place.  And we’re not just talking paper here – you can recycle food and drink containers, start a compost program, and try using compostable products.
• Put recycling bins next to all your trash cans.

As you can see, making your office green can be quick and easy.  You’ve probably already employed a number of these tips, but hopefully you’ve discovered some new ways to reduce your impact on the environment.