An Eco-Friendly Office

We spend most of our waking hours during the week in the office, so being environmentally friendly here makes a big impact on our eco footprint on the planet.

If you work from home, you have control over your environment. Even if you have to go to work in an office, you can still become 'greener' and encourage your boss to introduce environmentally friendly policies. Here are some ideas.

Stationery & Supplies

Buy recycled stationery and close the 'recycling loop'.

Reuse envelopes for internal mail.

Reuse scrap paper for notes, draft print-outs and so on. Providing a collection point means it's always to hand.

Use rechargeable batteries.

Computers

Refill your printer ink and toner cartridges, or send them to be recycled for charity. You can find out more at websites like www.cartridges4charity.co.uk or www.recyclingappeal.com, or contact yourfavourite charity to see if it offers a scheme.

Mobile phones can be recycled for charity too.

Send old computer equipment to a recycling company, who will clean it of sensitive data before selling it on or donating it to those in need.

Energy

Switch off computer monitors and lights when not needed, even during a lunch break. Don't forget photocopiers and so on at night.

Choose utility suppliers who use renewable energy, for example www.unit-e.co.uk.

Make sure the thermostat is at the correct temperature. Ensure your work premises are energy efficient by using insulation and A-rated white goods.

Travel

Car share. Arrange lifts with colleagues, or people who live and work locally - there are websites where you can do this, a directory can be found at www.carshare.com.

Get on your bike. For shorter journeys it could be just as fast, you can cut through the traffic, and park easily.

Pick company cars that are less polluting.

Use the train for business travel. You can use the time to work too.

Food & Drink

If you have a water cooler, why not use a company that donates profits to charity? The websites www.linkvending.co.uk and www.aquaid.co.uk may help.

Have a special bin so plastic cups can be recycled, or use non disposable crockery.

Bring your food in a lunch box instead of buying a heavily packaged sandwich.

Loo

Install a flush limiter.

Buy recycled toilet paper.

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