We are all becoming increasingly aware of our impact on the environment – or at least we should be. It only takes looking back at this past year and the record-breaking high temperatures we saw in summer (over 40 degrees!) and the freezing cold temperatures this winter, to see the effects of climate change.
There are many things we can all be doing to reduce our impact and work towards a more sustainable lifestyle, this also applies in the workplace.
Here are a 5 very small and simple things businesses could implement to move towards a ‘greener’ workplace;
1. Use less paper!
The average UK employer wastes thousands of sheets of paper per year. Go paperless! Store files and documents electronically. Make use of digital tools and software that reduce the need for printing. When you do need to use paper, try and use recycled!
2. Reduce disposable plastics!
It takes 450 years for a disposable plastic cup to decompose. Try and look for sustainable and reusable alternatives.
That goes for your coffee on the way to work too, get yourself a reusable coffee cup!
3. Switch it off!
Lighting an office overnight wastes enough energy to heat water for 1000 cups of tea. It sounds simple but switching off lights and turning computers and printers off at the plug at the end of the day does make a difference. Laptops instead of desktop computers are also more energy efficient!
4. On your bike!
Cycling to work is great for your health and the environment. Businesses can encourage this by implementing initiatives such as the ‘Cycle to work scheme’. If you can’t cycle or walk to work, then try using public transport.
5. Get some plants!
Office plants can help to create a calm and peaceful workplace which can boost productivity! As well as looking nice plants also serve a useful function by absorbing toxins from the air, toxins often emitted by printers.
Whilst the problem of climate change is not going to be solved by making these small changes, if we can all make an effort and be more sustainably minded, that can only be a good thing.
