1. Make the Most of Office Equipment
According to the Department of Energy, office equipment accounts for 16 percent of an office's energy use. The use of computers, printers, copiers and fax machines adds up, but simply turning your computer's sleep mode on when you are not using it can save energy (screen savers are energy wasters, not savers).
2. Cut Down on Office Transportation
Carpools and public transportation benefit both the environment and your employees.
3. Eliminate Vending Machine Waste
Coffee-making vending machines may save you from caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the morning, but they do not help out the environment. If your office vending machine dispenses its own cups, make sure they are recyclable or see if the machine allows you to use your own reusable mug instead of dispensing a plastic cup each time it makes a beverage.
4. Monitoring Lighting Usage
We obviously can't work without lighting, but we can do our best to cut down on unnecessary use of lighting.
5. Monitor Paper Usage
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, each employee in a typical business office generates 1.5 pounds of waste paper per day.
6. Keep Your Cool . . . and Warmth
According to a TIME magazine article, heating, cooling and powering office space are responsible for almost 40 percent of carbon dioxide emissions in the U.S. and eat more than 70 percent of total electricity usage. You can save about 10 percent on your electricity bill by just adjusting that thermostat by one or two degrees.
7. Check Out Soy-Based Ink
Ink made from soybeans is not only better for the environment but better for your company's bottom line, as well. |
