How to be Sustainable in the Workplace

April is Earth Month and April 22 is Earth Day. Caring about our planet should be celebrated everyday but recent events give us cause to reflect on our planet and how we're treating it. Sustainability means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

We have come up with 5 ways to become sustainable in the workplace. 

1. Implement a recycling program  

One easy way of supporting sustainability is to create a recycling program within your office. These bins can be situated in the kitchen area to your office, ensure you provide flyers at each recycling station, so staff know where to put their recyclables appropriately. Educating each other on the best forms of recycling is key to a more sustainable work environment. Nowadays, there is countless options when it comes to deciding what recycling company is the right fit for you.

2. Save energy within the office   

The simplest actions are usually the most effective. Even down to turning off the lights and switching off electronic equipment around the office during off-hours will help to save energy resources as well as save your company a significant amount on your electric bill. Make sure to communicate these positive changes in policies with your staff members so that they too can shut off their computers at the end of each work day and turn the lights off in their offices before they depart. 

3. Try to go green with vendors

Try your best to source green vendors that are local to your business. This will create a more sustainable environment for your workplace. Make sure you research your vendors to ensure their legitimacy. 

4. Reduce by reusing 

At PrinterWorks West, we discourage disposable coffee cups being used by our employees and instead bought ceramic mugs to replace them and be re-used daily at the office. We also promote this initiative in our office by offering company merchandise items such as travel mugs, travel bags and stainless steel water bottles. 

5. Invest in office plants 

Placing plants around the office can help to beautify your workspaces, uplift the overall atmosphere of your workplace, and reduce stress and anxiety for your workforce. Indoor greenery can boost oxygen levels and remove harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide and formaldehyde. In fact, NASA research reveals that indoor plants reduce 87% of indoor air pollutants within 24 hours. If you're convinced of the health benefits of office greenery, this infographic can help you select the ideal plant for your office environment. 

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact our team by emailing [email protected]