Ten tips to create an environmentally sustainable office

We are facing major challenges to the sustainability of our planet. As a result, we are frequently reminded of things we can do to be more environmentally conscious. More hybrid vehicles are on the roads and many of us are smarter about our use of water, electricity and other resources. Still, with all the hype about going green, people sometimes overlook easy steps they can take to reduce their environmental impact.Greening an office is easier than you might think. Here are some ways to get started:

1.) Recycle

Set up recycling bins around the office in high-traffic areas so they are easily accessible. Make it a practice to purchase remanufactured printer toner and recycle empty toner and inkjet cartridges.

2.) Green your paper

Select 30, 50 or 100 percent post-consumer recycled content paper, and also look for Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper – a mark that ensures paper is from a responsibly harvested forest.

3.) Reduce and reuse

Depending upon the size of your office, consider purchasing reusable cups, plates and mugs for use in the cafeteria and break rooms. Reduce paper use by defaulting printers and copiers to the double-sided setting. Whenever possible, e-communicate by using the company intranet and printing less.

4.) Purchase green office supplies

Many office suppliers are starting to carry more eco-conscious options. The choices run the gamut from recycled paper and plastic products, remanufactured toner cartridges, rechargeable batteries, folders, flip chart easels, plastic clipboards, waste can liners, desk pads, scissors, writing instruments
and more.

5.) Consider sustainable furniture

When outfitting a new space or replacing existing furniture, consider choosing furniture made with recycled content and low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Sourcing environmentally preferable furniture – and even paints – can help improve indoor air quality at the office.

6.) Green how you clean

Choosing sustainable cleaning products helps to keep toxic chemicals out of the soil, water and air, for a reduced impact on people and the planet. Look for products with third-party certifications from widely recognized organizations that have stringent guidelines, such as the Environmental Protection Agency’s Design for the Environment and Green Seal.

7.) Encourage employees to drive less

Create an incentive program to encourage employees to carpool, bike or take public transportation, and sponsor special events such as an annual bike-to-work day. Encourage the use of virtual meetings to reduce business travel and your carbon footprint.

8.) Choose ways to save water, energy

Change incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescents to save energy and money. Encourage employees to turn off electronics at the end of the day, and install motion sensors in conference rooms so lights automatically turn off when they’re not being used. Make sure all kitchen appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers and sinks have water-saving features and any leaks are fixed immediately.

9.) Create a composting program

Start a composting program and educate employees on what items are appropriate for composting. Provide compostable cutlery, cups and food containers for your cafeteria. This will help divert food waste and containers from the wastebasket – and landfills.

10.) Green your restrooms

Install auto-faucets to help save water and motion-sensor lighting to reduce electricity use. Stock your restrooms with recycled content toilet paper and tissue, and line waste bins with recycled content liners.

By Felicia Laconi, marketing director for furniture and facility supplies for Corporate Express US Inc. Corporate Express offers more than 2,300 eco-preferred office products, an exclusive line of Sustainable Earth® cleaning products and eco-preferred janitorial supplies and furniture to its customers through its online green catalog at www.EcofficeSource.com and on its premiere shopping site at www.eway.com.