Did you know
Companies may not put time, money, or energy into workplace waste reduction if they believe it’s too inconvenient to establish a program, or that it’s trivial because it doesn’t bring the company money.
However, while reducing waste may not generate revenue in the traditional sense, it will ultimately save your business money.
- GO (NEARLY) PAPERLESS – With programs like Google Docs that allows you to write, edit, and collaborate for free online, , it’s easier than ever to eliminate the amount of paper you use in the workplace. Consider adding a “think before you print” message to the bottom of your emails as a friendly reminder.
- KEEP A PAPER RECYCLING BIN WITHIN ARM’S REACH – People recycle when it’s convenient. Make it easy for employees to recycle by meeting them where they already are (at their desks) with a bin.
- PRINT SMARTER – Sometimes printing is necessary. Save up to 50 percent on paper costs by having employees set their defaults to print double-sided.
- PROVIDE REAL DISHES AND SILVERWARE – Instead of spending money on wasteful paper plates, harmful Styrofoam cups, and flimsy plastic utensils, invest in real dishes and silverware for your office café.
- BUY IN BULK – Purchase items like sugar, coffee/tea, snacks, and cleaning supplies in bulk instead of individually packaged to lower the cost per unit and reduce the amount of packaging.
- REUSE BINDERS AND FILE FOLDERS – Provide label stickers so employees can write over and reuse binders and file folders.
- CREATE A RECYCLING CENTRE – Make a small recycling centre by providing bins to put returnable bottles, non-returnable bottles, and paper.
- PROVIDE FILTERED WATER – Install a filtered water tap so employees can pour a glass of water instead of grabbing a disposable plastic water bottle.
- GIVE EMPLOYEES A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE – Surprise employees with a reusable water bottle with your company’s logo on it.
Links for more information:
www.mywaste.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Ebow_MyWaste_Broch_HR_Spreads.pdf
www.askaboutireland.ie/enfo/irelands-environment/waste-management/waste-prevention/business/
