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What follows is a brief introduction on how to create a green business or work environment. Follow these simple tips to incorporate a green ethic at your company, and then follow through with a full-scale sustainability policy.
1. Reduce
-Request removal from unwanted mailing lists.
-Set all printers and copiers to duplex (double-sided printing).
-Reduce printing and faxing in favor of communication by of electronic mail and telephones.
-Reduce the need for electronic equipment by upgrading electronic equipment and using fax/printer. combos. Network to a single office printer rather than use individual desktop printers.
-Buy products in bulk whenever possible.
-Purchase computers and equipment with extended warranties, possible upgrades and recycling programs.
2. Reuse
-Transition to re-usable plates, cups, silverware, etc. in lunchrooms and breakrooms
-Re-use supplies, equipment, and furnishings when possible.
-If you only have a one-sided printer, reuse scrap paper to print office documents.
3. Recycle
Recycle as much as possible, including: Electronic equipment, computers, cell phones, batteries, toner cartridges and old furnishings.
4. Buy "recycled" and "green" products
Use as many recycled products whenever possible, such as copy paper and printer toner cartridges
Click here to learn about Buying Green - Environmentally Preferable Purchasing for Businesses.
5. Save energy
-Use zone lighting and lighting sensors to automatically shut off lights not in use.
-Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
-Set all computers to EPA ENERGYSTAR settings to automatically power-down after 15 minutes of non-use.
-Purchase new office equipment with the EPA ENERGYSTAR ratings
-Maintain practical indoor temperatures to minimize heating and cooling expenses. Lower the heating or air-conditioning when building is unoccupied.
ECO-Tips: Save energy
6. Support alternative transportation
-Encourage use of public transportation, carpooling, biking, walking, and telecommuting as much as possible. Methods include: flexible scheduling, preferred carpool parking spots, monetary or gift incentives, paid leave days, recognition and awards, and others. Be creative!
-Locate your storefront or office building in a central area near public transportation facilities. When possible, choose a live-and-work communities where employees can live in the neighborhood.
-Buy locally whenever possible to reduce transportation costs.
-If you have a vehicle fleet, create a "green fleet" program to save money on fuel, reduce emissions, prevent pollution and create a healthier workplace for your employees.
ECO-Tips: Drive Less, Save More
ECO-Tips: Eco-Friendly Car Care
ECO-Tips: Fuel Efficient Driving
Green Fleet and Alternative Fuels
7. Conserve water
-Install water saving devices in restrooms and water fountains
-Locate and repair air and water leaks
-Install low-flush toilets and waterless urinals where possible
-Reduce irrigation water use as much as possible through the use of xeriscaping and mirco-irrigation.
ECO-Tips: Conserve Water
8. Choose least-toxic products
-Use Non-toxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products
-Use non-toxic, durable, and recyclable/reusable building supplies and furnishings as much as possible
-Use alternatives to pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers wherever possible
Creating a Green and Profitable Work Environment
ECO-Tips: Create an Eco-Friendly Yard
ECO-Tips: Safe and Simple Lawn Care
9. Network with sustainability groups
-Become a Sustainable Sarasota Business Partner and develop a full-fledged plan for sustainability.
-Join the Sarasota Green Directory to market your product.
-Join Co-op America's Green Pages Online.
-Attend Sustainable Sarasota Community Partner Meetings.
Click here for more Green Business Links and Resources.
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