Specialist
Highline Office Technology actively look for ways to work towards having a healthier planet, and try to make changes where they can.
They are working towards that goal and have compiled a list of suggestions that will allow you to do the same in your office.
With that in mind, here are 9 tips for achieving a more sustainable office.
1.Stop Using Disposable Cups and Cutlery
We understand that using a disposable cup is a lot more convenient than having to wash a real mug after you use it, but think about how many cups of coffee and water you go through a day. Giving your mug a quick rinse after every use could help reduce the use of plastic and paper cups immensely, especially if everyone in the office does the same.
They do a number of trade shows through the year to showcase their printers, scanners and software solutions. While they do use some disposable goods, they ensure that they are compostable and not single use plastics.
2.Increase Your Greenery
Although this step seems too simple to be true, office plants have been proven to help boost productivity, improve memory and enhance your mood, all while recycling your office’s air. Don’t just settle for a small desk plant, branch out (we’re sorry) and get a decent sized Ficus that can live in a corner of your meeting room.
3.Inter Office Communication Does Not Need to Be on Paper
Try to introduce a ‘paperlite’ rule within your office. If something can be reviewed electronically, e.g. on a laptop, then this might be a better way. Depending on your industry, you may be able to reduce the amount of documents you print. This step is difficult for companies who deal with a lot of paper on a daily basis, but even a small scaling back of printing will help. Often, the use of print management software can assist with this, e.g. eCopy, Therefore and PaperCut, can all help monitor, manage and minimise paper usage.
4.Redecorating
Realistically your office already has bright walls, but if not, consider redecorating your office to have light coloured walls. Light paint colours and higher gloss sheens reflect daylight, meaning your space will need less overhead lighting, which will also save your company money on electricity bills.
5.Invest in Multi-Functional Printers (MFPs)
Invest in a multifunction printer rather than using separate machines for different functions such as; copying, scanning, faxing and printing. MFPs also have the function of duplex printing which is being able to print on both sides of paper. This is not only environmentally valuable, but it also helps your company economically, by saving on your stationery bill. The new printers also are much more environmentally friendly from an energy consumption point of view and are generally made from recycled materials. At Highline Office Technology, we only work with companies that have strong green credentials, including Canon, Epson, Olivetti and HSM. You can learn more about our MFPs by clicking here.
6.Stop Using Plastic Packing Materials
The HSM Profipack is an excellent alternative to using plastic packing such as bubble wrap, polystyrene or other plastic fillers. The HSM Profipack shreds used cardboard, creating flexible, soft and cushioning packaging material that can be used as carton netting, strips or chips. You can discover more about the HSM Profipack range by clicking here.
7.Adjust Light Bulbs to Be Eco Friendly
Replace standard incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LED bulbs wherever possible. These use 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs while delivering the same light output.
8.Introduce a Recycling Station
Stop using that bin under your desk for everything and try introducing a recycling station to your office where you can separate paper, plastics and compost waste. This small gesture will add on only seconds to your day, but will make a drastic change to the environment and the amount of waste your office produces. It also has the added benefit of making you get away from the screen, to stretch your legs and get a few more steps into your day!
9.Utilise Your Printer Modes
Use your printers’ eco-mode if it has one. Ink/toner-saving modes are fine for drafts and other printed material that doesn’t require high-quality output.
Article supplied by Jean Evans - Highline Office Technology - Giving you back time. Giving you peace of mind