Environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important for businesses, with the benefits extending well beyond environmental concerns. Businesses across different sectors are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact and are starting with creating environmentally friendly workplaces. According to research by Schneider Electric, CEOs from prominent companies believe that over 70 percent of Australian businesses must commit to nett zero emissions by 2050. According to Planet Ark and HP, more than 90 percent of Australians are concerned about the environment and sustainability, and 80 percent hold businesses accountable for their environmental impact.
While the transition to hybrid working is the driving force behind future workplaces, it serves as an opportunity for businesses to minimise their expenses and become more sustainable. Many employees are unaware that while hybrid working offers an improved work/life balance, it also has a number of environmental benefits.
So, if your company wants to put its greenest foot forward, here are some tips and considerations for making your workplace more sustainable.
Reducing Waste
Over the course of a year, businesses generate a lot of waste. An average garbage bin is composed of 76 percent paper and cardboard, 12 percent food waste, and 6 percent glass and plastic. While working remotely, it’s easy to overlook all of the waste that accumulates in a typical office: from sticky notes, and paper napkins, to throwaway coffee cups. A hybrid working environment can help bring these levels of waste down, with less demand for in-house resources. Additionally, it will lead to more cost-saving and environmental perks by requiring less office space and utilities. Regardless of whether your employees work in a hybrid environment, it is critical for businesses to educate them on methods to reduce waste and recycling systems at the workplace, just as they do at home.
Auditing Energy Waste
Do you know that leaving gadgets on standby, whether it’s a tablet, a printer, or even a microwave, consumes electricity even when they’re not in use? It can be responsible for up to 10 percent of your electricity bills. Your office is almost probably a victim of “phantom load” or “vampire energy,” whether your workers operate remotely or in an office environment. Each year, an estimated $19 billion is wasted on vampire energy. To save on standby expenses and be more sustainable, always remember to unplug the equipment. Ask all your staff, no matter where they’re working from, to turn off their systems, printers/copiers, and other electronics that aren’t in use to help reduce energy usage.
Sustainable Printing
Did you know that printing mistakes, junk mail, bills, and packaging account for up to 70 percent of a company’s total waste? Each year, the average office worker uses around 10,000 sheets of paper. For a more environmentally friendly option try a lighter paper like New Future Opti, or strive to utilise only 100% recycled paper or FSC certified paper.
Make Smart Choices
If possible, use renewable energy sources such as solar, large-scale wind farms, or geothermal. Replace outdated, inefficient equipment with newer and more energy-efficient technology. Lighting is a significant contributor to energy consumption, use LED or CFL bulbs in place of incandescent bulbs. Though LED lightbulbs cost more than incandescent bulbs they consume 25-30 percent less energy and last around 25 times longer. Installing light timers in common areas such as break rooms and restrooms can also help in energy conservation.
Opt for Eco-Friendly Products
Many suppliers are aware that customers are looking for environmentally friendly products, so have a look at what your company buys on a regular basis and see if there’s a more sustainable alternative. This can include switching your kitchen, stationery, cleaning, or furniture supplies with eco-friendly products. But, before procuring services, ask whether they have an environmental policy in place or relevant ISO certifications. When you buy recycled items, you’re not only supporting a business that cares about the environment, but also reducing your carbon footprint and helping to safeguard forests and natural resources.
Creating an environmentally friendly business is supported by staff who believe in your vision for adapting environmentally behaviours in the workplace. There are easy and cost-effective initiatives that your company can take to reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact.
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