5 Steps Toward A Green Workplace

There are countless ways for companies to become responsible environmental citizens. In the coming weeks, we’ll be using this space to provide you with specific detailed things that you and your colleagues can do to make a difference.

In the meantime, here are some general areas and a series of tips that make a good starting point.

1. Reduce paper consumption. Create a company-wide environment where digital files and email take priority over their paper counterparts.
2. Purchase properly. Recycled paper products are an obvious start, but recycled furniture, energy-efficient lighting and biodegradable cleaning products are other examples of ways that companies can buy smart.
3. Commute efficiently. Employees can rethink their approach to getting to work. Carpooling, public transit, telecommuting and time shifting can all save natural resources.
4. Save energy. Beyond turning out lights and turning off coffee makers, learn about the energy settings for office computers, printers and scanners.
5. Make green a workplace priority. Form an action team, brainstorm at meetings, create programs, encourage participation.