Sustainability is the practice of reducing waste and being environmentally responsible in our day-to-day lives. It’s something everyone should be doing, but it can be challenging in an office setting with so many people. Not every employee will be on the same page when it comes to sustainability, but there are some things you can do as the business owner or manager to help move things in the right direction.
With simple apps, tools, and devices, your office can start making a difference right now. Learn more below.
1. Automate energy use
One of the easiest ways to make your office more sustainable is to automate your energy use. This means setting up timers and sensors to make sure lights and appliances are turned off when they’re not needed. It might seem small, but it can add up over time.
Smart thermostats are a great way to automate energy use in your office. They can be programmed to ensure the temperature is comfortable for employees during working hours but lower when the office is empty. This can save a lot of energy and money over time.
You can also use overhead door closers to ensure doors are closed when the office is not in use. This helps keep the heat in during winter and the cool air in during summer. Other office hardware that you can automate includes printers, computers, and coffee makers.
2. Encourage sustainable commuting
If your employees are commuting to the office, encourage them to carpool or take public transportation. Carpooling not only reduces emissions but can also save money on gas and parking. When employees take public transit, they can save even more money and help reduce traffic congestion.
You could also offer a subsidy for employees who use sustainable commuting options if you have the budget. This could be a monthly stipend for those who carpool or take public transportation or a discount on parking for electric vehicles.
You can also install bike racks to encourage employees to ride their bikes. Riding bicycles is a great way to reduce emissions and get some exercise. When the weather is nice, encourage employees to walk (or run) to work.
3. Use sustainable office supplies
Many sustainable office supplies are available for businesses. From recycled paper to biodegradable pens, there are plenty of options. You can even find furniture made from sustainable materials like bamboo.
When shopping for office supplies, look for recycled or sustainable options. This will help reduce waste and the number of resources used. You can also talk to your suppliers about their sustainable practices. Many companies are working to reduce their environmental impact, so they might have some great suggestions for you.
Another way to reduce waste is to reuse or recycle office supplies. For example, you can use recycled paper for printing or donate old furniture to a local charity. You can also recycle toner cartridges and ink cartridges. These things can help reduce waste and the number of resources used.
4. Implement a paperless system
Paper is a significant source of waste in offices. From printer paper to faxes, a lot of it gets used and then thrown away. You can help reduce waste by implementing a paperless system.
There are many ways to do this. You can use electronic signatures for documents, store files electronically, and use online fax services. You can also encourage employees to print double-sided or use recycled paper.
Some businesses also choose to use recycled paper for their office. Recycled paper is made from post-consumer waste, so it’s a great way to reduce your environmental impact. You can find recycled paper at most office supply stores.
5. Invest in green technology
Green technology is a great way to make your office more sustainable. From solar panels to energy-efficient appliances, there are several options to choose from.
Solar panels are a great way to reduce your energy use. They can be installed on the roof of your office or in the parking lot. Solar panels can generate a lot of energy, so you might even be able to sell some back to the grid.
Energy-efficient appliances are another great option. They use less power than traditional appliances, so they can save you money on your energy bill. You can find energy-efficient appliances at most major retailers.
Another option is to install a green roof. Green roofs use vegetation to help insulate the building and reduce energy use. They can also help to improve air quality and create a more pleasant work environment.
There are many ways to make your office more sustainable. From investing in green technology to using sustainable office supplies, there are plenty of options to choose from. By taking some simple steps, you can make a big difference to the environment.