Sustainability and the Office

As our work environments continue to expand and grow into mobile, global, interconnected spaces, it is now a great time to reestablish your commitment to the environment. The products you use may be greener, the companies you work with are going greener, and many people who want to use your goods or services may make final decisions based on your sustainable practices.

Wisegeek wisely writes, "In environmental terms, sustainability implies that an action can be continued indefinitely with little, or manageable, impact on the environment. Because the health of the environment is closely linked with the health of society in general, sustainable practices ensure that the Earth's resources will be available for future generations to enjoy, and that there will be an Earth to enjoy them on. For this reason, many companies focus on sustainability, either as consultants to other companies or as part of their corporate mission". Wanting to give back where possible should be the mission. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Make sure everyone is turning off the computers, monitors, lights, printers and copiers when not in the office (or at your desk)

2. Have power strips or surge protectors with on-off switch throughout the office

3. Have recycling bins near your copier / printer

4. Use paper that is 100% recycled, 30% post consumer

5. Try to go as paperless as possible

6. When purchasing new computers, buy EPEAT certified or items that are Energy Star rated

Check out this PDF for more tips (created for an educational institution) or here for more tips (created for the office).

Additionally, how do your city and state rank on going green?Not to brag, but I live in the number 1 city in the USA - apparently we are highly educated on the sustainable movement and it's practices. Check out the list from Grist here. Oddly enough, Washington State is number 17 on the US national list. Those guys in Vermont are definitely doing something right! See where your state falls here.

Have anything special that your office does? How do you stay accountable? Let us know in the comments below!

~ Kendal