There are so many things we can do everyday to green our workplace. Most of these ideas cost nothing and can potentially save so much money you'll wonder why you never did it in the first place! But most of all, each action will make your organization more environmentally sustainable and contribute to a healthier environment. So what are you waiting for? Read on and make the change you want to see in the world.

Print & Copy

1. Print and copy double-sided.

2. Print internal documents in draft mode to save toner and use toner software, such as TonerSaver, to reduce the use of toner on high quality printing as well.

3. When purchasing a printer, choose one that printes two-sided documents.

4. Avoid printing emails.

5. Reduce spacing and margins on printed documents.

6. Use post-it fax notes for faxes.

Recycle

7. Recycle waste paper, post-its, file folders and all other paper products. (Keep a recycling bin close to your desk to make it easy.)

8. Cut up waste paper and use it as message pads.

9. Reuse envelopes for internal mail.

10. Collect organic material for composting.

11. Recylce all materials banned from landfill (beverage containers, corrugated cardboard and newsprint.)

12. Reuse packaging supplies and select suppliers who use recyclable packaging and packaging with recycled content.

13. Use reusalbe cups, plates and cutlery in your lunch room and for meetings and other events.

14. Shred unrecyclable paper and use it for packaging material.

Purchase

15. Buy certified office supplies (e.g. Environmental Choice, FSC-certification, etc....)

16. Use refillable products - remanufactured toner cartridges, refills for pens, markers and highlighters, refillable tape dispensers, reusable coffee filters.

17. Use rewritable CDs and DVDs.

18. Purchase a plain paper fax rather than a thermal paper fax (thermal paper is not recyclable).

19. Purchase computers that are Energy Star certified and recognized by EPEAT.

Conserve

20. Don't leave water running while washing hands or doing dishes in the lunch room.

21. Turn off lights when leaving a room.

22. Turn off or set your computer to hibernate.

23. E-mail, circulate or post memos rather than copying for everyone.

24. Create a newspaper and magazine exchange within your office.

25. Review subscriptions and circulation lists regularly to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date.

26. Use presentation software or dry erase boards for presentations rather than flip charts.

27. Use undated, erasable wall calendars and planners.

28. Bring your lunch in a reusable container.

Have more great ideas? Send them to us at service@frogfile.com.