Ten Ways to Go Green in Your Home Office

By Rob Guerin
•
18 Apr, 2018
•

Air Quality and a relaxing atmosphere is of the upmost importance when it comes to office productivity. There are even studies proving that the office environment can make or break productivity. Going green and cutting out toxins and pollutants in your home office is easy and will help you focus better. Breathe easier and work more efficiently with our ten tips on living the green life!

1) Choose Your Paint Wisely!

If you choose to paint your home office (which you should because certain colors boost productivity and creativity) choose a paint brand that is low in VOC's (volatile organic compounds). This is your first step in turning your home office green...well green in the sense of sustainability but if you choose green paint good for you! Check out these five VOC free paint brands to use in your home office.

2) Illuminate Your Work Space The Green Way!

Lighting is very important in your home office, especially if you work into the night. You want to choose a light source that is not harsh on your eyes and will allow you to see clearly all at the same time. Choose to install LED bulbs rather than florescent. Studies show that florescent lighting actually decreases productivity, while LED's are a safer more efficient bulb. Not to mention, florescent lights are bad for your health - they actually emit ultraviolet rays, contain mercury and can't be properly recycled due to the chemical compounds within the light bulb. By using LED's you can recycle and save yourself from harsh lighting and toxins.

3) Put Computers to Sleep!

By activating sleep mode on your computer you can prevent up to 300 lbs. of carbon emissions per year! This is one of the simplest forms of going green at your home office! Check out this cool infographic on how going green at your home office matters!

4) Purify Air With a House Plant!

Many houseplants purify toxins from the air. Clean air reduces the risk of getting sick and a house plant will boost your oxygen levels! Not to mention, a great houseplant brightens the room!

5) Reduce Paper Waste and Go Paperless!

It May not be possible for you to go completely paperless, but there are some ways to cut back on your paper consumption. Switch all your billing to online pay options, opt for online invoices and use a scanner and email to cut back on faxing. Not only will going paperless help you reach a greener office, you will notice less clutter on your desk! Check out these 16 tips for a paperless life!

6) Purchase Green Supplies

If you have a home office, you have probably spent hours getting the supplies that will help you be the most productive. From envelopes and stamps to paper, labels and organization systems - the supplies adds up and seems endless. You always need certain supplies around the office that you just can't do away with. We suggest buying eco-friendly, recycled and biodegradable products to decrease your home office carbon footprint.

7) Recycle, Recycle, Recycle!

This is by far the easiest and most simple way to go green in your home office, but is oftentimes overlooked. Recycling makes a huge impact on our resources and truly is a full circle process. Buy refillable ink pens and cartridges for your printer. There is a reason these are made to be refilled, but 70% of ink cartridges end up in a landfill somewhere! Many office supply stores will refill your ink cartridges and give you rewards for doing your part for the environment!

8) Clean Green!

A clean home office reduces stress and looks fabulous! When cleaning your home office, don't go for the regular off the shelf cleaning supplies. Try to make your own green cleaning product or buy a certified green product the next time you're at the market. There truly is no better cleaning agent than vinegar and lemon. Try mixing the two with hot water and essential oils for a clean, delicious smelling home office.

9) Install a Power Strip

The Department of Energy estimates that, of all the electricity used in the U.S, seven percent is wasted powering unused devices. If you install a power strip in your home office for your computer, printer, fax, etc. you will not only be able to reduce energy consumption, but you'll save money! Use the power strip's on-off switch to boot up and shut down your electronics and feel good about your conscious power use!

The Department of Energy says, "Office equipment alone consumes about seven percent of all commercial electric energy. Therefore, by using advanced power strips the nation can significantly reduce its overall energy consumption."

10) Remind Yourself That You're Already Making a Difference!

You're already making a huge environmental impact and reducing your carbon footprint by choosing to work from home. You don't have to worry about the high cost that comes with commuting and you are better able to waste less when at home. Going green and living sustainably is a step-by-step process. You won't conquer this iN a day, but you will find that the journey is fun and challenging!

Just remember to keep thinking green and remind yourself often that this lifestyle is a journey that will better the future!

CALL US: 203-HANGITUP (203-426-4488)