The threat to the environment is a reality that we must all face and take responsibility for. Changing our damaging habits is the only way which we can contribute to the fight to save our planet. Some of us find the idea daunting and don’t know where or how to start protecting the environment. Here are seven ways to get you started at work:

Avoid using disposables in the office kitchen

Stock up on non-disposable cutlery, glasses, cups and dishes and purchase a dishwasher. Have a mug with each staff member’s name on it and request that each member is responsible for cleaning up after themselves. This may seem like a waste of money at first but in the long run, it will save money as consistently purchasing disposables adds up at the end of the year.

Re-use wasted photocopies for note taking

Offices often end up with useless photocopies that end up in the bins. Even if your office recycles paper, using the blank side of the photocopied paper for note taking is a good way to give it one additional use before recycling it.

Use electronic methods of communication whenever possible

Communicate electronically with your employees instead of giving them solid copies and avoid sending paperwork via post to your clients. Inform them that your office has acquired an eco-friendly policy and that you’d like their permission to email documents to them from now on.

Adopt a strict recycling policy

Simply stating that your office recycles is not enough. Have large, clearly visible and easily accessible recycling bins for your employees. Inform your employees of the importance of protecting the environment and your office’s determination to run an eco-friendly office. Make it a requirement, not an option.

Use recycled and biodegradable office supplies

One simple way of running an eco-friendly office is using recycled paper, biodegradable bin bags, refillable ink cartridges and non-toxic office supplies and stationery.

Use environmentally friendly cleaning products

Hire cleaners that use environmentally friendly cleaning products to clean your office space. Using non-toxic products is healthier not only for the environment but also for your employees.

Adopt a simple uniform policy for your employees

Employees often have to go out and purchase clothes specifically for work so they don’t always show up with the same outfit. This is wasteful and bad for the environment, as clothing is constantly being disposed of without being worn enough. Asking your employees to wear a simple uniform, like a pair of black trousers and a white shirt, for example, takes away the pressure of constantly purchasing new outfits. As an added bonus, it also saves them time in the morning, making them less likely to be late for work.

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United-UK, as a business, we specialise in consolidation and streamlining of our clients and prospective clients’ supply chain. Whilst cost and administrative benefits are important, the ability to reduce our clients’ carbon footprint through reduced deliveries and environmentally considered supply reviews is priceless. We aim to bring this to the forefront of our sales process; ensuring our message and values are clear.