- Use Electricity Wisely:
- Turn off all computers, printers, photocopiers and other office equipment which not need to be left on, at the end of the workday.
- Set your computers to sleep mode after 15 minutes no usage.
- When leaving a room for more than a few minutes, turn off your office lights.
- Change light bulbs to energy efficient compact fluorescents.
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
- Recycle office paper, cans, bottles, etc.
- Reuse the back of paper for notes, print double sided, don’t use plastic or foam cups, use real cups.
- Use environmentally friendly office products:
- On average, they may cost up to 5% more, but reduce the amount of waste and pollution.
- Try 100% recycled paper, refillable ink cartridges, non-toxic highlighters or markers etc.
- Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products:
- Encourage and ensure your janitorial company is using environmentally friendly eco logo certified cleaning products.
- Make Eco Friendly food choices:
- Encourage locally grown foods. Encourage your cafeteria to do the same. When ordering lunches, choose local restaurants.
- Telecommuting:
- Encourage working from home (where possible)
- Reduces pollution levels and increases performance and time availability.
- Transportation:
- Encourage carpooling amongst employees where possible. Encourage transit, biking or walking.
- Try to reduce Printing material where possible:
- Read items on screen and print only when necessary. Use 100% recycled content paper products. Discuss using recycled paper for promotional material and business cards. Invoice electronically.
- Institute a casual dress code:
- Not having to wear hot suits in the summer can reduce the amount of cooling required in the workplace (and make a happier workplace).
- Buy fair trade, organic coffee and teas:
- Providing coffee and tea to employees may reduce the need to drive to the local donut shop. Encourage them to use their own mugs instead of paper or Styrofoam cups.
