Green Home Office

If you’re anything like me, you spend a lot of time in your home office. I know that most normal people use the majority of their home’s energy in the kitchen and laundry room, but in my house, it’s probably all expended in the office.

I’ve been making a conscious effort to have an eco friendly office, and thought it would be worthwhile to pass on some of my ideas.

~ Since lots of paper is dealt with in the average home office, it’s a wise idea to have a special bin for paper that can be recycled near by. Most people will do something consistently if it’s easy, I’m definitely one of those people!

~ Go Paperless. Instead of printing emails, web pages, and other items on your computer, create an organized file structure so you can save everything electronically. Back up your files so that you don’t lose important documents.

~ Take 2 minutes to add a line to your email signature that asks people not to print your emails.

~ Spend a few hours signing up for electronic bills, if you haven’t already. Sign up for online banking so you can pay your bills online.

~ Buy only recycled printer paper for your office.

~ Use scrap paper instead of virgin paper for doodling and writing notes to your self.

~ If you are planning to remodel your office, consider purchasing green office furniture made from recycled or renewable products. If you are painting, use low or zero VOC paints.

~ Check to make sure that all lights fixtures in your office are equipped with CFL light bulbs. CFL’s are a economical and easy way to help create an eco friendly office.

~ I have to have my computer on when I get up in the morning so I can check my email right away…if you’re like me, set your computer to turn off at a certain time each night and to turn back on 5 minutes before you get up in the morning, that way it will be powered on and ready for you to use right when you wake up and you’ll still be saving energy while you sleep.

~ I recently learned that PaperMate is now making 60% recycled pencils. They’re only slightly more expensive than regular pencils and they’re good for the environment. You know what they say about every little bit helping…

~ Speaking of green writing utensils, Pilot now has a line of pens called BeGreen. Their pens are made from 81% recycled content and cost just under $20 for a case of 12.

~ Don’t forget to turn your lights off when you don’t need them and when you leave the office!

Drop us a line and let us know what you’re doing to make your office more green!

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