10 Ways to a Truly Green Office

Businesses today are seeking to remain eco-friendly like never before. Getting rid of the old ideas and adapting those that are newer and fresher, ensures that they are able to get a green office that is reasonable and functional. With all the various initiatives and benefits of a greener office, why not join in and create a more eco-friendly office? After all, the world that is set today will be in motion for the generations to follow, which does include any children or grandchildren you may have along the way. Helping to create a better world for the future includes getting in the trend of green operation, which can be done through these 10 ways to a truly green office.

1. Recycled supplies. This is very important in getting a greener office, as the supplies you use each day can be great and they are all obtained through plants such as trees and other materials that can destroy the environment as well. When you use recycled office supplies, you are helping to conserve the resources of today, while preventing pollution.
2. Recycle. When you are getting ready for trash day, make note to observe recycling as it is one of the most effective ways you can really achieve a green office. Sorting trash and recyclables isn’t difficult in the office, especially if you are utilizing appropriate containers to discard various items based on recyclability.
3. CFL or LED lights. When it comes to your office’s lights, you would be surprised just how much energy is generated to power them non-stop throughout the day. If you switch your lights to CFL or LED lights, however, you can save up to 85% on energy costs from the bulbs alone. These are both great examples of energy efficient replacements for older technologies.
4. Lighting motion sensors. Why should the lights be on when you aren’t in the room? With lighting motion sensors, they don’t have to be, as they only light up when there is movement detected within the room. Once you leave the room, the lights will turn back off, allowing the office to only utilize the energy that it really needs for adequate function.
5. Turn everything off when not in use. If you aren’t using something, there is no reason why it should be on. In fact, you should be trying your best to keep anything that isn’t in use turned off to save as much energy as possible.
6. Use laptops instead of desktops. The great convenience and benefit of a laptop is you are using only a very small percentage of the energy you would use with desktop computers. A desktop generally is plugged in and running all day from electrical current, while the laptop utilizes battery power.
7. Brita filter or large water supply. A large portion of office costs can be associated with the need to consume water during the weekday. Using bottled water is a preference for higher water quality, but that can be a high pollution risk and will create a bit of a rift in your plan towards a green office. Using a Brita filter or a large water supply of filtered water can ensure that the bottles are left out of the office.
8. Reusable plates and mugs. Many times within an office, employees are known to utilize throw away supplies such as cups and mugs, as well as other types of eating supplies. Instead of using that which can be thrown away it is a great idea to use reusable plates and supplies that allows you to save on costs and reduce your environmental footprint.
9. Green power options. With many states, there are various options for green energy, including incentives and rebates that help to afford various green energy sources, including solar and wind power. This is a great way to lessen office costs while greatly reducing your carbon footprint and helping to establish a more eco-friendly power grid.
10. Programmable thermostat. This is one of the most common methods of reducing costs and energy consumption, with many electrical utility companies offering energy efficient programmable thermostats to install for greater decrease in energy use.

Establishing a greener office is done very easily and with low cost. There are some options that may cost a great deal upfront, but after the benefits begin to show, the costs are well worth the savings in money and energy used each month and year. The actual savings can greatly profit you in the long run, while helping you create a truly green office.
(source: jobpostings.org)
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