Even if it’s small, we should all do our part for the planet.
From recycling, avoiding plastic bags or composting food scraps, it feels fantastic to do something great for the environment.
But sometimes we become too caught up in how busy life gets that we feel we don’t have the time and resources.
One place where we can focus our attention on impacting the environment is in the office.
Workplaces have a fantastic opportunity to show kindness towards the planet and put in sustainability practices, but even as an individual, you can impact your office carbon footprint with a few simple tweaks.
Start with small changes.
Speak with your office manager and see if you can swap simple everyday things with a greener alternative.
Or lead by example. Once you get into the habit of sustainable practices in the workplace, you’ll be doing your part for Mother Nature and may inspire the rest of your team to follow suit.
Here are some quick ways you can make your workplace greener today.
Recycle and reuse
This may seem like a no brainer, but it is worth mentioning because, for every tonne of recycled paper, thirteen trees are saved.
So, if you don’t have one already, set up a recycle bin for your office.
Reusing paper if you need to print a draft or a handout for a meeting is an excellent way to cut back on paper. It’s also a good idea to invest in reusable materials.
Green up the office
Bring in some sturdy plants to help convert that CO2 into glorious oxygen.
This may seem like an insignificant change, but it will lighten up your office, and it will encourage people to be more environmentally conscious.
If you celebrate a colleagues birthday or you have annual present swaps, why not gift a plant?
Just make sure you remember to water them!
Power down
If you’re not going to use a piece of equipment, switch it off at the power source.
Done with your computer for the day? Shut it down. The meeting is over, or you’re the last one in your office? Turn the lights off before you leave.
This is an easy habit to pick up, that will impact the environment for good right away.
A friendlier commute to work
Make your carbon footprint smaller and cut back from driving to work every day.
You can get some exercise in if you cycle or walk to work. Or get some reading done on public transport.
If you live a bit far out, find out if there’s anybody who lives close to you and carpool with them. They could be somebody in your office, a friend or a friend of a friend. Ask around.
The important thing is to make a start. Talk to your colleagues because chances are they will want to create a greener workplace too.
Do you have any suggestions for making work more environmentally conscious?
