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Written by pondripples
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Looking for some ways to reduce environmental impact at your office? This is a list of things you can do to make your office green.
Instructions
1. Set up paper recycling.
People will recycle more paper if they have recycling boxes at their desks. You can use empty paper boxes for this.
2. Look for ways to eliminate paper.
The paperless office is possible, and a reality for many companies. Look for software solutions that minimize the need for paper. Scan old documents, and file new ones electronically. Once you get the hang of it, electronic documents will be easier to use.
3. Use recycled paper in the printer/copier.
Set up recycling in the break room.
4. If you have a soda machine, place an can and bottle recycling bin next to it.
5. Put motion sensors on the lights.
Identify rooms that are not always occupied, and put motion sensors on the lights to conserve electricity.
6. Turn off or unscrew lights in unused areas.
Large office spaces often have a whole bank of lights on one switch. If an area is unoccupied, you can unscrew all or some of the light bulbs in that area to conserve electricity.
7. Turn off the lights at night.
If no one is there, there is no need for the lights to be on. Sometimes they are left on for security cameras. Try placing motion sensor lights for the security cameras.
8. Give discounts on public transit to employees.
Getting a few cars off the road will be a big help to the environment.
9. Offer the best parking spots to car pools.
This is a zero or low cost way to conserve gas.
10. Allow telecommuting when practical.
If an employee doesn't have to commute, even part time, quite a lot of gas can be saved.
11. Phase out CRT monitors.
CRT monitors use much more electricity than LCD screens. This can increase load on air conditioners in the summer.
12. Dispose of electronic equipment properly.
Electronics contain heavy metals, and should not be disposed of in the regular trash. Electronics recycling has made great leaps forward in the last few years. Look for a program near you.
13. Pay attention to HVAC efficiency.
When leasing a new office space ask for information on how efficient the heating and cooling system is. If tenants demand efficiency, landlords will make upgrades. This also saves on utility costs.
14. Buy used furniture.
The market is often glutted with used office furniture. Help keep it out of the landfills, and help your bottom line at the same time. Lots of the modular furniture can be refurbished, and higher end chairs are sometimes still under warranty.
15. Bring in some house plants.
There are some studies indicating that house plants help clean the air. These studies have been somewhat limited, but it can't hurt, and it should make the space more inviting to employees.
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Environment 
