Energy Saving Tips for your Office

Whether you have a small home-based business or a large manufacturing plant, there are things that you and your staff can do to reduce your use of energy and natural resources like water and paper products.

Start saving energy and money by following the simple tips provided below.

Energy Use:

• Reduce heat to stairwells, hallways and lobbies
• Reduce thermostat settings at night, as well as during weekends and holidays
• Install energy efficient lighting throughout work areas as well as emergency, exit and outdoor lighting areas
• Turn off lights and office equipment when not in use
• When replacing office equipment and other equipment, choose ENERGY-STAR rated products that have automatic power-save or sleep modes
• Be sure to properly maintain your heating and ventilation equipment

Paper Use:

• If you must print a document, be sure to print double-sided
• Photocopy on both sides of a sheet of paper.
• E-mail, circulate, or post memos rather than copying for everyone.
• Create a newspaper and magazine exchange within your office. Eliminating multiple copies of publications will help reduce paper use.
• Use presentation software or dry erase boards for presentations rather than flip chart paper.
• Recycle paper, corrugated cardboard and newsprint
• Choose FSC paper and printers or paper with recycled content

Water Use:

• Shut off all taps tightly, and report any drips to building maintenance personnel.
• Place low-flow tap aerators on faucets
• Use low-flow showerheads in shower facilities
• Encourage property management to perform energy and water audits to identify opportunities for energy and water saving.

Other Helpful Tips:

• Use reusable mugs, plates, and cutlery in your lunch room and during meetings.
• Remember the three Rs: reduce, reuse and recycle.
• Compost organic materials