How to Create an Environmentally-Friendly Home Office & Save Money?
‘Go Green.’ People around the world are embracing nature and trying to help the eco-system. Now, it’s your turn. Create your success while keeping the environment safe and happy.
Is it hard? No! will it cost much? Absolutely not!
“80% of workplace waste is recyclable” says the KS Environmental Group.
Combine your household recycling with your home office recycling for convenience. Find out how you can reuse products and supplies in your office and house.
In North Vancouver, Heidi Schimpl, Community Programs Coordinator at the North Shore Recycling Program, has come up with affordable and simple practices in your home office to contribute to a healthier environment and save money.
1. Recycling Bins
By now, you’d think that most people are recycling. Well, I wish I could tell you that it was the case!
It’s easy to create an eco-friendly home office. You just need to improve and have a proper centralized system. You can reduce costs and monthly expenses by thinking of the thing you’re about to throw before throwing it. You should see if it’s reusable or can be crafted into a beautiful DIY project.
So, you can label the bins to specify the types of waste that go into each one (i.e., trash = candy wrappers and coffee pouches/compost = cardboard, food scraps, used coffee beans/mixed recycling: glass, plastic, and aluminum)
2. Printed Documents
Do you want to save money and not buy notebooks? You can use the blank side of any printed document to write your notes, drafts, and study as well. Don’t waste the blank side, and use it to your advantage.
Also, you can create a fantastic memo or note pad by cutting papers with one printed side. Then, stick them together to save money on notepads.
3. Switch-Off
If you’re not using your electronic devices, get into the habit of switching them off. For example, when you’re not using the computer, turn it off. You don’t have to keep it on in case you might use it.
Also, don’t keep the chargeable devices charging when they’re fully charged. Once you reach 100%, remove it from the charger. This might seem simple, but it saves loads of energy, and you’ll save some cash too.
4. Refill Kits
Do you have a printer at home? To save money and the environment, make sure you have refillable ink and toner cartridge.
If yours are non-refillable, then you should contact the manufacturer of the printer and ask if it has refillable kits. If they don’t, then you can do the earth a favor and try to talk them into having refillable kits in the future.
5. Edit on Screen
Instead of printing out copies and editing them, you can edit them on your computer first. Even if you have no problem purchasing blank sheets, you’ll do the environment a favor. You can also use Grammarly to help you edit your documents online for better writing and grammar revisions.
6. Reusable Water Bottles & Cups
I assume you buy lots of water bottles and consume them throughout the day. Well, how about getting a large bottle of water and a dispenser instead. Then, you can fill your reusable water bottle or mug from the dispenser.
Why not get a mug with personalized printing with a motivational quote or something that represents you to encourage you to use it.
7. Rechargeable Light Bulbs
You can save energy and money by getting energy-efficient light bulbs. Some light bulbs depend on batteries. You can also get rechargeable batteries for extra energy conservation.
Do you have any tips to help save the environment? Share it with us and let’s build our success while keeping the environment safe!
