Sustainable Workplaces
Creating sustainable businesses is essential as we move towards a greener globe. If you are a business owner or an office manager, it can be a challenge to know the best ways to make your office more eco-friendly. Create your greener office by implementing these ideas and strategies.
Improving Energy and Water Efficiency
Maximising the efficiency of resource use is not only beneficial for the environment but will save you money too. Businesses are responsible for producing large amounts of carbon emissions. Therefore, they need to be responsible for reducing them too. Renewable energy is a great way to ensure the energy your office is using is not negatively impacting the environment.
Consider installing solar power panels. The initial cost may seem counterproductive. However, it will save you money in the long run. Solar panels can power your entire office, including lighting and devices. Solar thermal systems can be used to cool and heat your office. Heat pumps and solar power systems can heat your water.
Even when using these renewable systems, lowering use is the best way to reduce costs and help the environment. This can include turning lights and devices off when not in use, and being mindful of water use.
Waste Reduction
In our contemporary society, we have access to a supply surplus. As a result, waste has skyrocketed. There are some very simple fixes such as a dedicated recycling system and creating a paperless office.
Furniture is a key aspect of waste that is often overlooked. When you buy office furniture, that is of low quality, you are often spending more money to replace each item. This is worse when the materials used are not recyclable. This is because you end up contributing to the ever-growing landfill.
Sustainable furniture should be durable and recyclable. Furniture should be made to last. The more wear-resistant furniture is, the less waste you’ll be discarding.
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Office furniture made from sustainable and recycled materials will leave a lower footprint on the environment.
Things to look for when purchasing furniture for your office
- Look for items made from sustainable or reclaimed wood.
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- Previously recycled products are ideal
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- Ensure items can be recycled. This significantly reduces the negative effects of throwing away items.
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- Look for pieces that have quality manufacturing. These will last longer and reduce the need to keep replacing items.
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- Prioritise multi-purpose items. Less furniture means less waste.
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Employee engagement
Encourage your employees to help promote a greener office. Posters around the office are a great way to do this. Reminders near the lights printer will help reduce unnecessary waste.
In addition, a challenge would boost morale and help the environment. For example, a challenge to walk or cycle to work. Ample bike parking and showers available will help support this initiative. Alternatively, you could implement a carpooling initiative for employees who live further away.