[sc:date]
Does your company follow environmentally friendly practices on a regular basis? When you’re busy performing the 101 other tasks of running a business, it’s easy to overlook something as simple as this. But creating a more eco-friendly workplace offers several different benefits, only one of which is lower running costs. It’s not uncommon for companies to slash their monthly power bill by 30% or more through such practices. In addition, you’ll set a good example for other companies to follow. To learn more about how to make your workplace more environmentally friendly, keep reading.
#1) Implementing a Recycling Program
One simple way companies can create a more eco-friendly workplace is to implement a recycling program. Rather than tossing those used packaging boxes and cardboard inserts into the trash, perhaps you can place them into a recycling bin. Whether it’s cardboard, aluminum or plastics, companies should recycle these materials rather than throwing them away.
#2) Use Recycled Material
Of course, companies can also make the switch to using recycled materials in their workplace. If your company prints instructions, documents, etc., try using recycled paper. There are dozens of solutions available for using recycled paper materials, and contrary to what some people may believe, they oftentimes work better than ‘new’ paper. This alone is a huge step towards creating a more eco-friendly workplace.
#3) Lighting
Does your company still use old fashioned incandescent light bulbs? While this type of lighting does the job just fine, it’s not energy efficient. A better solution is to replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs. They tend to cost slightly more up front, but this initial cost is paid back in the form of a lower monthly power bull. CFL bulbs are designed to screw into standard sockets, so you don’t have to worry about any special setup equipment. In addition to the lower energy bill they offer, CFL bulbs also last about twice as long as incandescent bulbs, which is yet another reason why you should make the switch.
#4) Cover Your Drains
A fourth tip that’s helpful for creating a more eco-friendly workplace is to cover your drains. You can read more about the benefits of covering your drains in our previous blog post located here, but the bottom line is that any chemicals traveling down your drains will likely end up polluting nearby rivers or water reservoirs. It only takes a minute to toss a cover over them, and doing so will protect the environment from potential contaminants.
