Sustainability at work is more important than ever. Making this practice a priority in the workplace benefits the environment and helps improve your company’s bottom line. According to a Harvard study, working at a green-certified office can boost employee productivity by 26 percent and lower sickness-related absences by 30 percent.
That said, taking advantage of these benefits starts with understanding what sustainability at work looks like. Here are the basics of maintaining a sustainable workplace:
Implement energy-saving practices
One of the most important aspects of sustainability is reducing energy consumption. When you lessen your reliance on energy sources, you also reduce your company’s carbon footprint and running costs.
There are several ways to save energy in the workplace. One is to install energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs. You can also upgrade your office’s HVAC system to a more efficient model or add weather-stripping to doors and windows to reduce drafts.
Another way to save energy is to adopt energy-saving improvements. You can transform your office in a way that improves the use of natural light and ventilation. You can also install solar panels to generate reusable power.
Whichever energy-saving practices you implement, ensure they’re appropriate for your workplace and will save energy. In doing so, you can help the environment without compromising employee comfort or productivity.
Extend surface lifespan by using laminates
An office laminate is one of the most versatile and sustainable elements you can incorporate into your workplace. It comes from highly durable material that can withstand years of use. They’re also easy to clean and resistant to fading, staining, and scratches.
A laminate helps to extend the lifespan of your work surfaces. By using it, you can avoid having to replace your desk or workstation as often. In turn, this reduces the amount of waste your company produces.
Laminates are available in various colors, textures, and designs. So, choosing a suitable office laminate is a matter of personal preference. Doing so allows you to create a unique and stylish workspace that is also sustainable.
Incorporate waste segregation stations
A typical workplace can accumulate up to four pounds of waste per day. This figure can quickly add up and become a strain on the environment. One way to reduce waste in the workplace is to implement waste segregation stations. These are areas where employees can dispose of their trash correctly.
Waste segregation stations typically have three bins: one for recyclables, one for compostables, and one for general waste. By placing these stations in strategic locations, you can encourage employees to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Of course, you must also ensure that the waste segregation stations are appropriately labeled. You can use signage or color-coding to indicate what goes in each bin. This practice can reduce confusion and ensure the waste is disposed of correctly.
Invest in smart technology
Especially in today’s climate, investing in smart technology is sustainable for any business. Smart technology refers to devices and software that automate tasks and processes. They’re well-designed to improve efficiency while reducing waste.
There are many types of smart technology you can incorporate into your workplace. One is energy-tracking software, which monitors your office’s energy consumption. This software can help you identify where to save energy and adjust accordingly.
Other types of smart technology include employee productivity tracking software, project management software, and communication tools. Investing in these technologies can help your business run more smoothly while saving time and money.
Refurbish old furniture
Instead of buying new furniture, consider refurbishing old pieces. This sustainable practice can save you money while also preventing waste production.
Sometimes, old pieces of furniture only need a little TLC to look as good as new. For example, you can sand down and repaint an old desk. Or you can reupholster an old office chair. Other times, you may need to replace some of the furniture’s components. For instance, you might need to replace the legs of a table, or the drawer pulls of a filing cabinet.
Regardless, refurbishing old furniture is a great way to give it a new lease on life. Plus, it can add character to your workplace and make it more unique. Learning to refurbish furniture is also a valuable skill that you or your employees can use in the future.
When it comes to sustainability, there are a few essential practices you can encourage in your workplace. Implementing the above sustainable procedures in your workplace is a great start. Following these tips can save energy, reduce waste, and improve your office’s overall efficiency. With sustainability in mind, your business can help preserve the environment for future generations.
