It seems that everyone has a home office these days. Even my parents
who are in their 70’s have a designated office in their home. I work out of my home,
so my daily commute to my home office is eco-friendly. I also purchase supplies on line
and have them delivered. I use as many earth friendly supplies as possible. And my work
environment is filled with green products. Even though my office is painted beige (with
non-VOC paint of course), it’s very green.
Use recycled (used) office furniture and furniture made from earth-friendly products
Use recycled paper
Make your own notepads by using the blank side of previously printed paper
Use green computer disks
Use earth friendly inks
Recycle your print cartridges
Purchase a staple free stapler (such as Wrapables)
Change Lighting/light bulbs to CFL bulbs or other low energy lighting
Don’t print unless it’s really important
Tip: Send information like directions to your cell phone instead of printing
Order supplies on-line and have delivered (most likely the delivery trucks are already coming to your neighborhood); flatten and recycle cardboard boxes
Use biodegradable trash bags in your waste baskets
Use file folders made from recycled fibers
Reuse file folders by using self-stick labels for identification
Stop office supply companies from sending their catalogs to you if the same information is available on-line
Use live plants (they create better air to breathe, look good; and if you use herbs, smell good and offer a food source!)
Turn off the lights (and ceiling fan) when you leave the room
Reuse containers or boxes that you already have for organizing small supplies like pins, rubber bands, clips, etc.
Save power and money - power off printers, computers, monitors, electric staples, etc. when you are not using these items
Recycle old phone books
Reuse packing and shipping materials when possible
Use the paper from your shredder to pack items for shipping or storage
