Even though most of us don’t think about it, what we do in our home offices or workplace offices can have a significant impact on the environment.  Below are some things that you can do to “green” your office and make it more environmentally-friendly.  Be sure to share these ideas with your friends and co-workers.

• Learn more tips with this interactive office tool. (1.18 MB .swf)

Photocopiers
Reduce

• Lease or purchase copiers that can print double-sided copies
• Cut the amount of paper that you use in half -- make double-sided copies when possible
• Email, circulate, or post documents instead of making a copy for everybody
• How many copies do you really need?   Take a little time to better estimate or count how many copies you are really going to need.
• Save some toner by turning down the contrast when possible.
• Shipping labels so that you can return the “empties” to them for refurbishment.
• Be kind to others -- reset the settings on the copier when you are done. 

Recycle

• Recycle paper instead of putting it in the trash. We all make mistakes, so keeping a recycle bin next to the copier is a good idea.
• Buy recycled-content paper.
• Recycle toner cartridges when they are empty.   Many manufacturers actually provide
• Buy recycled toner cartridges -- they help the environment and are often cheaper.

Computers and Printers
Reduce

• Save energy by using the power management features of your monitors and CPUs. Learn more at the  EnergyStar® website.
• Using email to distribute information in your office is a great way to save paper-- if you and other recipients think before you print. Do you really need a hardcopy of that email?
• Most computer programs today have a “Print Preview” feature.    Use it to proofread documents rather than printing out numerous draft copies.   This is also a great time to run spell cheque check.
• Save paper by fitting more information on each page.   Try reducing your margin size and/or the font size.  Many computer programs will allow you to change the defaults so that you don’t have to remember every time. (e.g.  Microsoft® WORD®)

Reuse

• If you have to print draft copies, try designating and filling a tray in your printer with scrap paper that has already been printed on one side.

Recycle

• Recycle paper instead of putting it in the trash.   Keeping a recycle bin next to your work area is a good idea.
   

Fax Machines
Reduce

• Instead of using a full cover sheet when sending faxes, try using a small adhesive note, such as the one below:
   

  Fax-Note	Date	# of pages
  To	From
  Co./Dept.	Co./Dept.
  Phone #	Phone #
  Fax #	Fax #

  
  
• Purchase a fax machine that uses plain paper instead of thermal paper.   Plain paper is easier to recycle.
• Set your fax machine so that it prints out a transmission report only when specifically requested, and not every time a fax is sent. 

Files
Reduce

• Store files electronically when possible.
• Create a central document filing system that many people can access instead of having each person maintain duplicate files.

Reuse

• File folders can be reused many times simply by replacing the label insert in the plastic tabs, by inverting the folder, or by pasting a blank label over the old one.

Recycle

• Purchase file folders made from recycled materials.

Save Energy
Reduce

• Set your thermostat to 78° F during Summer and leave it at that setting. A thermostat lock box can help to cut-down on staff frequently adjusting settings during the day.
• Turn-off lights and equipment when they are not in use. Make this a part of the routine for the last person (or cleaning crew) each evening.
• Perform an energy audit and switch to energy efficient equipment.  FPL Energy Advisor.