As people are becoming more aware of the impact we have on the environment every day, everyone seems to be more interested in how we can reduce it. If we truly want to make an impact and help preserve what’s left of our planet, our efforts to go green should not end in our home. We have a moral obligation to try and get as many people as possible to realize what they’re doing to our planet and what they can do to stop it.
Modern businesses are fully aware of that, and are adopting environmentally friendly practices and trying to set an example for their employees to follow. There are a lot of things businesses are already doing towards achieving that goal, but there are still some small but significant steps they could take to minimize their impact on the environment. Here are some of them.
Improve the Air Quality in Your Office
Everyone seems to be getting sick these days, and we all know how seasonal diseases can spread like wildfire. But that’s not the only way germs can spread in your office. In fact, your heating system can be equally responsible. The key is to replace the air filter in your furnace and have it inspected by a licensed furnace technician at least twice a year, at the start and the end of the heating season.
The air filter is responsible from keeping dust, germs and allergens that hitch a ride with the hot air the system distributes away from your office. However, once enough of these unwanted guests settle in on the filter it becomes clogged. A clogged air filter is not effective in keeping these dangerous materials out and can also significantly increase the heating bill in your office. Finally, all that additional strain could permanently damage your furnace, leading to significant furnace repair costs.
Encourage Green Transport
Vehicles occupied by a single passenger are a major contributor of dangerous greenhouse gas emissions. This is why you should offer your employees an incentive to switch to green transportation means instead. You could help employees organize carpools for several workers or issue monthly public transport passes. Create a safe area where workers can store their bikes without having to worry someone might steal them. Another great incentive for bikers is adding easy shower access at the office or a nearby gym.
Use Green Office Supplies
A single lightbulb can make a lot of impact. Make sure to procure only green office supplies and you’ll vastly contribute to reducing the amount of waste you produce and consume. Add recycle bins and encourage employees to use them, switch to LED lightbulbs, replace paper towels with a hand dryer, and use eco-friendly office supplies.
Reduce Printing
Even though this should be the logical first step offices should take towards a more eco-friendly company policy, a lot of them still use up insane amounts of paper. Producing paper does not only harm the trees, but uses a lot of water as well. To prevent this waste, use digital formats whenever possible and recycle any unused paper. If you do have to use paper, make sure it’s created from recycled materials.
