5 Ways to Make Your Workplace More Eco Friendly

Posted by Bamboo Village on 5th Oct 2016

When you work in an office environment, it can be frustrating if your employer isn't on board with being eco-conscious, especially when it is close to your heart. The office environment often isn't too healthy either, and you may wonder how it might be affecting your health in general. Even if your boss isn't on board, try these tips to try and make your own office environment a little more greener for you.

1. Get Some Fresh Air - Years ago I worked in an office where the window in the space I shared with three others, didn't open. On hot days and after a few strong smelling lunches, it was a nightmare - and my employer at the time was in no rush to fix it. If you have a similar case where you work, take advantage of fresh air and get out of the office on your lunch break. Getting some fresh air into your lungs will help escape the clammy office environment.

2. Clean Your Own Air - Similar to above, office buildings in general don't have the purest air. Depending on how old your building is, you could be breathing in toxins from dust and mould, and decade’s old paint. Your boss may not be in any rush to update anything, but there are two options you can try out. Ask for an air purifier as a start, and also get your own desk plant. Studies have shown that having a desk plant cleans the air and can even improve your health.

3. Check Your Energy Use - Office buildings are always going to have dozens upon dozens of appliances on at any given time, and many will be left on standby overnight. You can modify your own usage though; switch to energy saving bulbs for any lamps on your desk, and ensure everything is turned off on an evening when you leave.

4. Working from Home - Not every employer is on board with this, but many are realising the benefits of flexible schedules and working from home some days a week. Research shows than many people who do this are actually more productive when away from the office environment. If your employer allows this, the benefits are worth it - it reduces transport to the office, saves on energy, and if your office air isn't the healthiest of spaces, you can escape from it for a few hours a week.

5. Product Usage - If your office doesn't have a recycling scheme, ask others if they'd like to start one and create your own if it won't cause too much trouble. If this won't go down well, try and do what you can with your own materials. Try to use documents electronically where possible, but if you have to print, use both sides. If you find you're throwing away a lot of paper, take it home in a bag and recycle it yourself.