At Work
Be particular about your paper - and all your office supplies! Use recycled paper – the higher the post-consumer fiber content the better. Copy on both sides to reduce your paper needs. Minimize printing. Recycle the paper when you’re finished with it. Many other office products are made from recycled materials. From printing and toner cartridges to pens and computers, you can buy recycled and many of the products are made in Pennsylvania. An in-state list of recycled product manufacturers that would make William Penn proud.
Turn it down, turn it off! Just like at home, keep an eye on the thermostat. Try 68 degrees in the winter and 72 or higher in the summer. Turn off lights, computers, and copiers when you leave the office. Office equipment uses about 30 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year!
Use it again…and again…and again! Keep scrap paper by your computer to print out draft copies or cut it up for taking messages or making notes. Reuse file folders by putting labels over the old labels. Bring your own coffee mug or water bottle to work and jettison the disposable cups. Have extra mugs on hand for clients. Have recycling bins in convenient locations, use them, and encourage their use.
Travel less, travel lightly! Favor conference calling over face to face meetings when possible. If you must travel, use public transportation or carpool when feasible. Encourage a company fleet of fuel-efficient vehicles. Look for the greenest lodging in your price range. Find hotels or other accommodations that have taken steps to lighten their environmental impact.
A comprehensive guide to the many ways to go Green at Work.
© 2007 Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources