Green initiatives for your business

Making a few simple changes to the way you operate your office can significantly reduce running costs, improve comfort levels and make your business a little greener.

Lighting

  • Turn the lights off at night or reduce the number of lights operating.
  • Try turning off every third light. This will save on energy with little impact on effective light levels.

Office technology

  • Set computers to ‘sleep’ mode when not operating. This will save up to 95% of energy compared to normal operation.
  • Choose energy star compliant equipment and ensure energy reducing functions are enabled.
  • Avoid printing documents, otherwise print double-sided.

Climate control

  • Adjust the thermostat on your heating/cooling by a degree or two. You can save on average 10% of your heating bill for every degree adjusted.
  • Open windows instead of using air-conditioning.
  • Close doors when running heating/cooling or install automatic door closing devices.
  • Install draught proofing devices to doors and windows. This can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 25 per cent.
  • Consider installing external shading (preferable) or internal reflective blinds to windows exposed to direct sun. This can significantly reduce the load on your air conditioning system and reduce glare.
  • Place plants around the office to naturally filter pollutants and improve indoor air quality.

Water

  • Install flow restrictors on taps in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Fit dual flush toilets to reduce consumption of potable (drinking quality) water.
  • Consider installing a rainwater tank plumbed to office toilets.

Waste

  • Think before you print. Email instead of printing or posting and encourage suppliers to do the same.
  • Create a recycling system in the office. Separate recyclables from hard rubbish to reduce your dumping costs.
  • Invest in rechargeable batteries for office equipment such as cameras.

Recycle

  • Recycle your waste paper by using both sides of the page.
  • Reuse envelopes where appropriate.
  • Obsolete mobile phones and computer equipment can be deposited at designated e-waste facilities across Melbourne.

Transport

  • Consider greener means of transport. Provide a bicycle storage area for staff, encourage car pooling between staff members and load sharing with other local businesses.
  • If relocating, consider locations near public transport.
  • Consider investing in greener and smaller company vehicles.

Sustainability Victoria

Visit the Sustainability Victoria website for more tips, services and advice for businesses on resource efficiency.