My Name is Muzammil Bashir and I am working with the Editor of officeallsorts.co.uk – for all your office needs.


Reducing waste at the office has a number of phases, starting with taking measures to produce as little waste as possible in the first place. The following are some of the important steps in setting up an effective waste reduction program.

Minimize Use of Paper

Use computer files instead of paper as much as possible. Instead of using note pads and sticky notes, for example, use relevant computer programs, which are relatively cheap. Many of these programs also have task scheduling and reminder functions. If you need to distribute memos, do it via email. Electronic signatures are just as legally binding as those on paper.


If you must use paper for either printing or photocopying, then set your machines to use both sides of the paper by default. Reduce the margin settings to use most of the paper. Save ink too by printing in draft mode and black ink only if color is not a must.

Instead of using paper towels in the bathroom, install an air dryer.


Recycle

Apart from paper, different materials can be recycled at the office, including metal cans, plastic and glass. Set up a recycling program depending on the types of material to be recycled.

Start by placing recycle bins at strategic places in the office and then encourage the staff to use them. For your recycling program to succeed, the management must participate.

Make arrangements with recycling vendors to pick up the collected materials. Do your research and find a vendor whose terms and conditions are acceptable to you. For instance, some vendors provide recycling bins while others require you to buy yours. Negotiate on the price too.


Purchase Recycled Products

To complete the cycle, buy recycled products. Only by doing this will you really be recycling?

Besides the purchase of products made of recycle materials, ensure you only buy what you will use. It is shocking to find how many things are bought only to be left on the shelf. Remember most of the products purchased have usable shelf lives. Strike the right balance between bulk purchasing and waste management.


Reuse Products

Did you know that you could actually reuse envelopes? If you are worried about denting your image, then include a message indicating the reuse is meant to save trees. Find an appealing way to do this and you will help in spreading the message.

There are many other products that can be reused at the office, ranging from paper to boxes to cartridges to coffee mugs. If there are devices using batteries, invest in the rechargeable types.


Electricity

Modern electrical equipment like computers are designed to use some standby power even when turned off for easy switching purposes. In the long run, the power wasted becomes significant. Therefore, unplug them from the power socket when they are not in use.

Other helpful steps include changing thermostat settings, using compact fluorescent bulbs, turning off unused lights and installing skylights to maximize the use of natural light.

Other useful steps include using simple cleaning supplies instead of commercial detergents and providing filtered water.

Want to be a guest author with E-junkie.info. Write to us, we will be happy to hear from you.