by Leann Zotis

Created on: March 29, 2010   Last Updated: April 18, 2010

We all have good ideas for how to conserve our natural resources in our homes and throughout our personal lives.  We’re lowering the thermostat, turning off lights when we leave the room and driving hybrid cars.  We support ecological programs, plant trees and walk to the bank or post office when we can.  We’re aware of what it takes to be good citizens of the earth on our own, but what about when we leave the sanctuary of home and step out into the workplace?   Do we just assume it's our employer's responsibility to take care of this or should the environment be everyone's concern?  What efforts can take place in the business community to make an ecological impact statement?

1)      Encourage carpooling in your office.  Perhaps your employer will see fit to offer some sort of incentive for those sharing the ride to work each day.  Flex time benefits or a small token of appreciation might encourage ride sharing.

2)      In businesses where it makes sense, allow employees to work four 10 hour days instead of five 8 hour days.  The days could be staggered to provide adequate coverage whenever needed.  This move would cut down on 20 percent of an employee’s gas consumption and help alleviate traffic congestion and pollution in our cities.

3)      Alternatively, allow employees to work from home, at least part time.  Just like working longer days, this move will save energy and reduce the environmental impact of commuting.  Thanks to the power of the Internet, this move can work well in many industries.

4)      In the office there is an almost unlimited number of ways to reduce, recycle or re-use material.  Set the office printer and copy machine to print two sided copies and cut your paper consumption in half.  Use the backs of inter-office correspondence for your notes and memos.  Turn in used toners and ink cartridges to recycling operations.

5)      When you leave for lunch, or anytime you will be away from your desk and your computer for an extended period of time, set your computer to “sleep” mode and save energy.

6)      Lighting is a huge energy consumer in most offices.  Just like at home, offices can save energy and money by switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs instead of the standard incandescent

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