More and more people are going green at home, so why not go green in the office? Going green at work not only save energy but also create a healthier working environment for yourself and all those around you. Furthermore, being energy and resource efficient reduce the costs of running a business. It is time to go green! Here are some tips to get you started:
1) Conserve computer’s energy by switching it to energy-saving settings, setting it to sleep mode when you are away, and turning it off when you are done using it.
2) Turn off devices such as printers, speakers, and scanners to consumer power when not in use.
3) Unplug power adapters, battery chargers, and power strips.
4) Reduce printer use by printing in black-and-white if possible.
5) Reduce paper waste whenever possible like using old paper to print, getting check directly deposited, sending documents through emails, and reviewing papers online.
6) Cut back energy usage simply by turning lights off when no one is in the office.
7) Replace desk lamp light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs qualified with the Energy Star. These bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times as long.
8) Maintain a clean airflow in your office starting by using non-toxic cleaning products.
9) Don’t smoke in the office.
10) Get a plant on your desk! Plants absorb indoor air pollution and increase the flow of oxygen.
11) Recycle things like paper products, cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, plastic bags, ink cartridges etc.
12) Eat green in the office by packing your lunch in a reusable lunch bag.
13) Travel green to the office. For example, take public transportation or ride a bike.
Written by: Lauren Henry, class of 2014
Photo by: “Hot house plant” by ideatrendz
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