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Simple Ways to Make Your Office Eco-Friendly |
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There has been a dramatic shift in the way people think about the planet. Little thought used to be given to the impact of our actions on the environment. What seemingly started as a trend has grown into a cultural phenomenon known as "going green." As people have become more ecologically conscious, businesses have also begun to behave more responsibly with regards to the environment. Businesses that have not embraced the green movement are now seen as apathetic corporations and are facing more pressure to "go green".
It can seem overwhelming, but "going green" doesn't have to be a daunting task for your business. Turning your office into a green environment doesn't necessarily mean installing windows to use less electricity or renovating the plumbing system to conserve water. There are a lot of little changes you can make to reduce your environmental impact. Here are some easy ways to get your business "going green" without overhauling your daily operations.
Recycled Paper
Think about the amount of paper used every day at the office. If you're like most companies, it's a staggering amount. Merely discouraging employees from printing out their emails is not enough to greatly affect the environment, which is why it's important to use recycled paper products. Provide your employees with recycled paper notebooks to take notes with during meetings, and encourage them to reuse paper whenever possible. By imprinting the cover of these notebooks with an eco-friendly message, you will constantly remind your employees of your company's new attitude towards the environment and give them the necessary motivation to continue with their green practices.
Eco-Friendly Pens
Pens are another office mainstay, but because they are typically made from plastic they tend to wreak havoc on the environment. Replace the pens in your office with biodegradable pens so that once they run out of ink, they can decompose in a landfill. A simple change from traditional pens to branded biodegradable ones will force your employees to think twice about how the products they use affect the environment. By constantly using eco-friendly products on the job, your employees will be inspired to switch to green options in other aspects of their lives.
Reusable Drinkware
Another simple change to reduce waste in your office is eliminating disposable drinkware and replacing it with custom mugs, water bottles or personal cups for each employee. All are reusable and will save you money by abandoning the need to periodically purchase disposable drinkware. Additionally, many are available in recycled materials, doubling your positive ecological impact. Once your employees get into the habit of refilling their drinkware instead of throwing it away, they will carry the habit over outside of the office.
"Business Cards"
Every office has thousands of business cards-- little squares of paper just waiting to get lost or thrown away. Business cards are a waste of paper, so instead consider giving your clients something that not only is less harmful to the environment, but that they are more likely to keep. Custom imprinted biodegradable pens make a great alternative to business cards because they are not likely to be thrown away, and your clients will be reminded of your company each time they use it. Or consider giving a tin of imprinted mints. Everyone loves an easy way to freshen their breath, so the mints will be displayed prominently on your clients' desks. Even when the mints are gone, the tin is still likely to be used to store small items like paper clips. By thinking creatively to find alternatives to business cards, your company will stand out against the competition while helping the environment.
Being environmentally responsible doesn't have to break the bank. Eliminating disposable and non-recycled products in favor of branded reusable and recycled alternatives is a cost-effective way to break into the green movement while promoting your business.
Written by Mark Yokoyama
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