Going green at the office is easier than ever. Here are some simple changes you can make to your routine that can reduce your carbon footprint at work.

Reduce Your Personal Driving Commute

Consider alternate modes of transportation to reduce carbon emissions from your car on your daily commute. If it’s feasible or safe, bike or walk to work. Not only do you help the environment, but studies have shown that getting sunshine before you start your workday improves your mood. If you can’t make the trek on bike or by foot, look into carpooling with coworkers or taking public transportation.

Bring Your Cups and Bottles

Did you know that Americans throw away 25 billion Styrofoam coffee cups per year? Styrofoam is non-biodegradable and often ends up polluting our oceans and waterways. Trade the foam cup for a ceramic cup and while you’re at it, bring your own water bottle so you don’t have to buy plastic ones at the vending machine.

Conserve or Reuse Paper

Be selective about what you print to save paper. Whenever you come across misprinted documents or junk mail, don’t throw it away, use it as scrap paper. You could also ask the office manager to switch to using all recycled paper products for toilet paper, paper towels and copy paper for the whole office.

Eat More Plant-Based Lunches

According to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization, the production of meat severely damages the environment by emitting toxic greenhouse gases and polluting the water supply. So skip the meat and go green at lunch. Here’s a list of recipes to get you started.

Make Less Trash

Try to reuse and recycle when you can. Ask the office manager if recycling bins can be placed around the office. This action comes with a special added benefit: you get a desk free of clutter.

Conserve Electricity

Be sure to switch off all electrical fixtures and lamps, and put your computer into “sleep mode” before leaving for the day to avoid using electricity. Make it an office rule to turn off the lights to the break room and meeting rooms before leaving.

Naomi Mannino

Naomi Mannino is a health and personal finance journalist who specializes in helping consumers get the most from their health and financial choices. She enjoys sharing her personal experiences and never writes about anything she has not tried herself.

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