Ways to Make Your Workplace More Eco-Friendly
‘Going Green’ is more than just a trend - it has a variety of benefits for business owners. Going green provides a healthy environment for employees, reduces unnecessary waste and recognises the key role that businesses play in leading the way for social change. Creating a sustainable, well-reputed business can save you money on bills and can draw customer attention as an eco-friendly environment.
To begin the process of going green, businesses can follow a number of tips, including:
1. Reduce electrical waste
At the end of the working day, turn off all computers, printers, photocopiers and any equipment not in use. Most computers come with an energy-efficient setting that allows computers to turn off after 15 minutes of no use. For lighting, switch incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs and rely on natural lighting as much as possible.
2. Use environmentally friendly products
On average, environmentally friendly products cost 5% more but this is a small price to pay when you consider the impact on the environment. Start small by buying 100% recycled paper and refillable ink cartridges, before looking further afield to everyday items such as matting and floor coverings. Matshop offers a range of environmentally friendly mats that trap dirt and moisture from pedestrian traffic and are made from recycled products.
3. Encourage staff to commute together or ride bikes to work
Carpooling, public transport and bike riding are great ways to reduce the billions upon billions of wasted gas each year. Encourage staff by providing a bike rack or reward staff who share a ride to work.
4. Use non-toxic cleaning products
For simple spills around the office, purchase non-toxic products that don’t harm the environment. If you have office cleaners, ask about the products they use and request that only natural products be used.
5. Cut down on printed material
In today’s digital world, there is little need to print every document that comes over your desk. Create a filing system on your computer, remember to back them up regularly and print only what you need.
6. Get some plants
Indoor plants help to suck up the pollutants created by computer equipment while cooling the office at the same time. They are natural air conditioners that give a soothing and outdoor feel to your workspace.
7. Eat smart
Making eco-friendly food choices includes packing lunches at home to reduce unnecessary packaging provided by cafes and stores. Choose fresh, local ingredients, and wash down your lunch with a cup of fair trade organic coffee or water from the water filter. Stay away from disposable water bottles.
8. Use videoconferencing
Instead of travelling to clients and business partners, try videoconferencing instead. Not only does it save you considerable money and time, but it also reduces the carbon footprint associated with travelling.
9. Control your mailbox
With newspapers and catalogues now available online, you can still keep up to date without having to cut down trees. Many businesses get swamped with unwanted magazines, so consider steps for controlling what goes in your mailbox.
10. Remember that every little thing helps
When making green choices at work, remember that the smallest of actions can make a big impact. If every business adopted one or two of these tips, the environment could be significantly improved.