5 Easy Ways to Celebrate Earth Day at the Office

2015 Earth Day Series Vol. 2

The first Earth Day was held in the United States on April 22, 1970 as an environmental teach-in, or forum. Its purpose was to demonstrate support for environmental protection. The idea took off and each year 192 countries participate in Earth Day! If you read our blog last week you will know that we discussed the harm of single use plastic bags and some environmentally conscience alternatives to them. For the second blog in our earth day theory I will provide you with some easy ways to go green in the office!

Most of us spend at least 40 hours per week at work. With that kind of time the processes that we use for certain things can really make a difference on the environment. Below are some ways that you can make simple easy changes in the office and help support environmental protection at the same time.

1. Recycle

Although most of us recycle at home there are an alarming number of offices that do not. Think about how much paper and plastic your office is throwing away. Round up some co-workers to support your cause, get some bins specifically for recycling, put a sign on them with approved items, and spread the word!

2. Choose Both Sides

Every year, pulp mills release over one trillion gallons of chlorine-tainted water as part of the paper making process. Using the other side of the paper can cut that pollution almost in half! And choose recycled paper—especially processed-chlorine-free recycled paper.

3. Carry Your Own Water Bottle

Many offices supply bottled water for their employees. While that is nice of them, think about how many of those bottles are not getting recycled. That means that they end up in our landfills and oceans. Encourage the whole office to participate and tell your boss to put the money saved from purchasing water bottles toward a local charity. Now you are not only helping to protect the environment but also supporting your community.

4. Switch to LED Light Bulbs

Why use 60 watts for the everyday light bulb when an LED bulb only uses 10 to produce the same amount of light? Today's LED bulbs last up to 25 times longer and have really come down in price, with some costing only $8. Due to their long life and efficiency, LED bulbs will easily save you more than $100 over their lifetime. Plus, they are much better for the environment!

5. Turn Off the Lights

Many offices open each day by unlocking the door and turning on all the lights. Think about your office and the areas that are not consistently being used. Some common examples are conference rooms, kitchens, and restrooms. Turn off the lights when these spaces are not being used. It will conserve energy and lower the power bill.

With Earth Day just around the corner, take a few minutes to think about how many of these easy changes you can make. I encourage you all to try at least one this week to celebrate Earth Day! Stay tuned for more Earth Day information all week long!