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.