While making green efforts around the house is definitely one way to help reduce your carbon footprint, it’s just as important to integrate your earth-loving lifestyle into your workplace. Fortunately, much of our eco-friendly behavior at home can be easily repeated in the office. Here are 5 small steps you can take to be green at work.

1. Use less paper
Try cutting down on your printer usage. A single person can use a quarter ton of materials a year, including 10,000 pieces of copier paper. The next time you reach for the “print” button, consider if you really need a paper copy. If you do, try to make a habit of printing on both sides or on old notes and worksheets you don’t need anymore. You can also experiment with paper made from post-consumer waste. Also, recycle your newspapers and magazines—they can add up quickly!

2. BYOCC (Bring your own coffee cup)
Sometimes you just can’t get started without a cup of coffee in the morning. Buying coffee every day in a disposable cup generates at least 20 pounds of paper a year plus several hundred industrially produced plastic covers. But that doesn’t mean you need to give up your daily fix. Bringing your own coffee mug to work or a canister to your local coffee shop are simple ways to start reducing the use of the daily disposables. The same goes for plastic utensils and plates. Consider bringing your own utensils, bowl, or plate to work instead of using paper plates and plastic forks that will head straight to the trashcan.

3. Reconsider your commute
Instead of driving alone to work, find a carpool buddy or give public transportation a shot. If possible, speak with your supervisor or company about telecommuting options. Driving less and driving responsibly will help increase your car’s fuel efficiency and reduce the amount the carbon emissions in the air.

4. Maximize computer efficiency
Make a habit of turning your computer off when you leave at the end of the day. And while most computers automatically go into sleep mode when not in use, you can set your computer to go to sleep automatically during shorter breaks, too. This simple step can cut energy use by up to 70%. Try to practice these energy-saving tips at home too.

5. Create a healthy environment
The next time you wipe down your desk space, try using a non-toxic cleaning agent. The chemicals in popular cleaning detergents contain toxins that not only pollute the air but may also harm your health. Instead, mix a little vinegar with water to create a natural cleaning solution. Want to decorate your desk? Consider bringing in a plant! Plants help absorb the carbon dioxide inside the office space while brightening up your desk. These simple actions help create a healthier and more productive work space. Your actions may even inspire those around you to live a greener, healthier, and more enjoyable life.

~ Christine Chan