There are many reasons to “go green” all around us: global warming, deforestation, limited water supply, reliance on fossil fuels just to name a few. “Green” is everywhere– green incentives, green guides, green websites, green products, and even “green washing” (making products and services seem “greener” than they really are). It can be confusing and overwhelming at times. With busy schedules, “going green” can seem inconvenient.

With such big problems to solve, we may feel like individual efforts won’t have much impact. That, however, is where we need to start – one person, one family, one company making a change. We can make changes now to help the environment and improve the quality of life for future generations.

Incorporating some of the following suggestions into your workday can get you on the right path:
• Walk, bike, bus or carpool to work. To find a carpool, check www.eRideShare.com, www.CarpoolConnect.com, or www.SwiftCommute.com.
• Think before you print. Keep documents digital whenever possible. If you have to print, make sure you do double-sided copies.
• Utilize the energy-saving settings on your computer. On many computers, simply go to the Start menu, Control Panel, and then Power Options. Turn devices on only as needed (i.e. if you’re going to be working on a draft, don’t turn on the printer until necessary).
• Many electronics continue to use electricity even when turned off. To totally cut the power flow, connect your computer and other electronic devices to a power strip with an ON/OFF switch. Power down at the power strip if you will be away from your work station for several hours and at the end of the day. NOTE: Turn off your printer prior to turning off the power strip so cartridges are sealed. Use the stand-by setting on photocopiers.
• Set up a teleconference rather than driving or flying when possible.
• Think “Reduce and Reuse” before “Recycle”. For example, reduce the number of documents you print and therefore the amount of ink you use. Reuse paper for note pads and reuse ink cartridges by refilling them.
• If office paper and ink cartridges cannot be reused, then make sure to recycle. If electronics such as cell phones, computers, and printers must be replaced, donate those that still work and recycle those that don’t.
• For an electronic recycler near you, check www.Earth911.com.
Going green at the office doesn’t have to be overwhelming or inconvenient.
Start with small changes and take it from there. Every step we take does make a difference!

—Article written by Sarah Baron