by E.L. Miller

Created on: March 09, 2008

Going "green" is all the rage now, as concerns about the current state and future of our environment have come to light, but employees and business owners often overlook or just don't know how to create an eco-friendly workplace while remaining productive. In reality, there are several easy and cost-efficient ways to reduce a business' environmental footprint that will actually improve productivity and the bottom line.

THINGS EMPLOYERS CAN DO

BE A PAPER MISER. It's the Digital Age, after all. Institute a company policy to print only when necessary, and to reuse the backs of printed documents that would be thrown away. Send memos and other correspondence via e-mail, pick up the phone, or walk to an employee's desk to talk (it's good exercise, too). Burn files to disk for storage or to transmit large files to customers or other business associates. Subscribe to online magazines, news sites and trade journals, rather than having bulk or junk mail delivered.

BUY GREEN, BE GREEN. Purchase recycled paper and mailing supplies, eco-friendly cleaners, and power-saving products. Provide easy access to recycle bins and a place to wash cups and dishes. Have a water cooler, minus the disposable paper cups, and give each employee a water bottle to encourage reuse, while discouraging the purchase and discarding of bottled water containers. Used refillable ink and toner cartridges or send spent cartridges to recycling facilities. Decorate with potted plants to naturally enhance air quality (and because they look good). Invest in a reusable coffee filter.

BE FLEXIBLE. Lessen employee commuting (and office space overhead) by allowing employees who can do their jobs from home to telecommute. Allow workers to schedule four longer workdays and alternate days off each week (thus reducing commutes and giving staffers an extra day off - bonus points for company morale). Let the office supply list reach a certain length before ordering to greatly reduce packaging.

IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS. Encourage employees to submit their own eco-friendly ideas. Set an example by going over your business' efforts and goals for minimal environmental impact, and practicing what you preach. Explain to your employees how a "green" business not only helps the environment, but bolsters the bottom line as well. Decreased expenses equals increased profits, which can amount to higher wages - that should provide a little extra motivation to conserve. Post your eco-credo in a conspicuous place (like next to the labor

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