What’s wrong with employees taking the initiative to green their office? Here are some ideas and I know there are thousands of other ways to improve our environment for ourselves and our future generations.
- Employees may use a refillable water container. Offices are the largest contributors to plastic water bottles ending up in landfills. If it is necessary to use water bottles, then recycle. Ask about a water delivery service.
- Did you know that experts believe Styrofoam cups and containers take up to 100 years to break down? Since Styrofoam containers started in the 1950s, I won’t be here to see if this is true; but our children will be here and try to clean up the mess. If you stop for coffee, see if they’ll use a refillable coffee cup instead of the Styrofoam cup. If you have a coffee break room, use biodegradable cups.
- Unplug the charger from the cell phone when charging is complete. The charger still uses a “ghost” of electricity while it is plugged into the outlet.
- Please recycle, make sure paper, bottles and cans are put in the recycling bins in the office.
- Reuse and reduce… If you’re printing drafts or too many copies, use your scrap note paper. There are many ways to reuse items.
- Carpool to go to work. Employees can start their own program to save money and help the environment.
- Turn off the light in your office when you leave. Start making this your habit even at home.
- Walk the stairs. I know this is not a Green Thing, but it is a benefit to you. Well, maybe you’ll save on elevator operating costs. I have to think about this.
Good luck making your own green ideas and implementing the good ones in your office.