With increasing concerns for the environment, creating a sustainable office environment is more important than ever for businesses of all sizes. One in four people in the UK now see the environment as the biggest cause for concern, and so as businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a better future for the planet, adopting sustainable office practices can not only help you to save the world – potentially – but can also boost your reputation as an ethical and forward-looking business.
Saving energy
Many companies were looking to save energy in order to save month but in shared office spaces where bills are included, businesses still need to look to conserve energy in order to reduce their carbon footprint. Implementing simple measures, such as using energy-efficient light bulbs and devices, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, avoiding leaving devices on standby, and making use of natural light whenever possible, offices can significantly reduce their energy consumption and in turn reduce carbon emissions.
Paper waste reduction
Reducing waste is another simple yet crucial sustainable office practice. A comprehensive recycling programme is a great starting point with clearly labelled recycling bins diverting a significant amount of waste from landfills. Additionally, reducing paper usage by promoting the use of digital for documentation and printing double sided where printing is essential, can further minimise environmental impact.
Sustainable procurement:
Wherever possible, buying sustainable office supplies and equipment is another step towards creating a greener workplace. Choosing recycled and eco-friendly products, including as recycled paper, refillable options ranging from ink cartridges to hand soap, energy-efficient appliances, can make a significant difference.
Green transport
Promoting sustainable transportation options among employees can further contribute to a sustainable office environment, so choose office rental space that offers electrical car charging points as well as bike storage.
Cut the use of single use plastic
Why not gift your staff a refillable water bottle for use in the office and on their commute? Avoid using single use plastic cups or straws as standard in the office to keep difficult to recycle plastic out of landfill.
By adopting sustainable office practices even small businesses can make a tangible difference in reducing their impact on the environment. If you’re looking to rent an office space that are passionate about reducing their impact on the environment with electric car charging points and bike storage, get in touch with SEND Business Centre.
