Going Green at Work, a blog post by EcoGoodz, a mixed rags supplier

Mixed Rags are a specific type of used clothing generated from thrift stores and charitable institutions. Even though they’re used, the clothing in mixed rags bales are valuable. We send hundreds of thousands of pounds of used clothing bulk overseas to developing nations. Through our work we’ve come to understand the importance of reuse in order to reduce our impact on the environment. Following are ten tips to help you and your co-workers go green at work:

Print Less

Do you really need to print that email/memo/document? Can you print in black & white instead of color? Can you print on both sides to utilize paper more efficiently? Asking yourself these questions before you print something will help you be more aware of your printing habits so that you and your coworkers can cut back where ever possible.

Make Use of Scrap Paper

Clearly there are exceptions for documents containing sensitive information, but there will always be misprints, accidentally printed documents, and etc. that can be cut into smaller scrap pages and used in place of sticky notes or small note pads.

Turn Off Lights & Equipment When Not in Use

Just like at home, turn off the light when you leave a room; unplug small appliances when you’re finished with them, and power down all equipment (as appropriate) when not in use and at the day’s end.

Make it Easy for Others to Follow Suit

Make it as easy as possible for others to recycle. Some (like you) will go the extra mile to ensure proper recycling and disposal, but others will only do it if it’s convenient. The more efficient, seamless, and painless the process of recycling, the more participation and success you’ll have.

Buy Recycled Paper & Supplies

Purchase recycled paper, pencils made from newspapers, and other recycled supplies such as napkins, paper towels, cups, and etc.

Purchase Refurbished Equipment Instead of New

Time to replace the copy machine? Consider a refurbished or pre-owned model instead of a new one. Refurbished equipment often comes with a guarantee so you can be confident that your investment is a good one.

Natural Light

Open blinds and position furniture and desks to take advantage of natural light.

Real Plants

To improve air quality, consider keeping live plants at the office. The Mother Nature Network has a list of 15 indoor plants that will improve air quality. Among them are easy-keepers such as aloe vera, spider plant, and Chinese evergreen. Just be sure to water them as needed!

Eco Friendly Cleaning Products

Forego bleach and ammonia for cleaning. Use eco-friendly, biodegradable products instead. There are many wonderful eco-friendly options on the market that are safer for people, pets, and the environment than their harsh-chemical counterparts.

Get Everyone On Board

Going green is a whole lot easier and more rewarding if everyone pitches in and does their part. However, even if you’re the only one trying to go green in your work place, remember that no matter small, your efforts DO make a difference!