3 Ways to Green the Office

by Margaret De Stefano

1. Leave the hard copy reports. Use online (versus hard copy) versions of items such as annual reports, and information memorandums. Cut and paste necessary information and/or print only those pages instead of the whole report. If you have to print, make sure you print on both sides of the paper. 2. Install 'task' lighting - i.e. an efficient lamp for your desk so that a whole bay of overhead lights doesn't have to be turned on for just one person. It's easier on the eyes too. 3. Buy recycled ink and toner cartridges. Reconditioned or remanufactured printer, photocopier and fax machine ink/toner cartridges are available for many brands. If your brand of machine doesn't allow these sort of cartridges to be used (some don't) consider switching to one that does when you refresh your equipment. Also make sure you take spent cartridges to a certified recycling facility, rather than just putting them in the bin. On the other hand, you may be able to refill your empty cartidges at a local office supply retailer!