More and more businesses today are participating in the more environmental-aware trend of committing to sustainability. In fact, reports currently indicate that with the recent influx of companies going green, businesses can account for nearly 60% of emissions reduction by 2030, which will decrease our dependence on fossil fuels and diminish overall air pollution.
But it’s not just businesses that are upping their environmental sustainability game. Reports also indicate that consumers are demanding more eco-friendly approaches and strategies from companies and organizations. Corporate social responsibility research indicates around 63% of Americans express a desire for businesses to take more initiative with environmental change moving forward, and 76% of those consumers will refuse to endorse or purchase a company’s product or services if the company doesn’t reflect their environmental values.
Aside from utilizing effective waste solutions strategies, an easy way to cater to both sustainability goals and consumer values alike is by using more eco-friendly office supplies in your workplace. You’ll be amazed how many everyday objects and appliances can be replaced by more environmentally-reputable ones, and implementing such minor changes can have a massive impact for the greater good of the planet.
Let’s take a look at how your business can better practice sustainability by using more eco-friendly, recyclable office supplies in the office!
Start With the Kitchen
First things first, it’s worth taking the time to look around your workplace to spot products and supplies that can be swapped out for more eco-friendly options. The office kitchen is a common source for wasteful objects. Paper water or coffee cups, tea bag boxes, plastic utensils, plastic water bottles, paper plates; these are just a few of the items that can be replaced by more recyclable or compostable products.
If you’re noticing an accumulation of any of these items, properly dispose of them and switch over to entirely-disposable or compostable supplies, which can be purchased at essentially any convenient or grocery store. Eco-friendly water coolers are also a great way to keep employees hydrated and reduce your company’s carbon footprint. As for coffee, try to forgo any single-serving coffee dispensers such as K-cups, which are reported to contribute to around 15 billion capsules being improperly disposed of every year. Instead, switch over entirely compostable coffee filters and beans that can brew larger quantities at a time.
What’s on Your Desk?
You don’t even have to leave your desk to see products and supplies that could be swapped out for more environmentally-friendly ones. Any ballpoint pens or non eco-friendly pencils should be replaced in favor of entirely biodegradable pens or sprout pencils, which are biodegradable and lead-free.
Whatever supplies you have access to at your desk, chances are there are biodegradable versions you’re not using, such as scissors, tape, and batteries. You can even consider switching over to staple-free staplers that stitch papers to itself instead of relying on thousands of tiny metal staples every year.
Switch Over to Solar
It’s easy to assume that most solar-powered accessories are reserved for more elaborate items, such as vehicles, radios, or generators. But it turns out there are plenty of everyday office appliances and products that are solar-powered and will provide more renewable energy and sustainable solutions for the office.
Nowadays, there are solar-powered phone and USB device chargers, wireless keyboards, lamps, computer mouses, backpacks, calculators, and more! Above all, you can keep the office lit with energy-efficient LED lighting, which generally use 75% less energy than traditional lights, and can reduce utility costs.
Cut Out Non-Reusable Paper
Paper products are one of the easiest items to replace with more recyclable, biodegradable options. If your office hasn’t done so already, you should consider switching all printing paper over to multipurpose paper that is 100% tree-free, instead consisting of 100% recycled fibers. The same can be said for any toilet paper or paper towels that are used around the workplace, which make up a whopping majority of municipal solid waste.
Keep It Clean & Natural
One of the more overlooked items we forget to consider when it comes to switching out for more eco-friendly solutions are cleaning products. Most general cleaning products contain toxic chemicals such as chlorine and ammonia, which contribute to air and water pollution. Always check the labels on your workplace cleaning products, such as soap containers, disinfectant sprays, and hand sanitizer dispenser, to see if they’ve been deemed as non-toxic and biodegradable.
Commit Your Business to Sustainability Today!
These minimal eco-friendly gestures are what will make a bigger difference overtime to benefit our environment. However, the biggest way for your business to commit to sustainability is by securing sufficient waste solutions strategies to help your company contribute to reducing its carbon footprint.
At LJP Waste Solutions, we have the staff, equipment, and resources necessary to ensure your commercial waste is properly handled and processed. To find out how your business can better commit to sustainability, contact us online today to find a suitable waste solution for your company, or give us a call at 507.625.1968 to have all your questions answered by a commercial waste service expert.