Easy Ways to Go Green at Work

Think twice before you hit the "print" button at work. It can save money and the environment.

(NewsUSA) - Most of us can get behind saving the environment. However, the trick to becoming more green lies in choosing activities that easily fit into your current lifestyle so that it becomes effortless.

With that in mind, here are some tips for going green at work, and bringing a few co-workers along for the ride:

* Think twice before you press "print." Unless you need physical proof of a document for legal or financial reasons, most e-mails and files can remain electronic and still be easy to locate.

If you've printed something you no longer need, consider feeding used paper into printers or copy machines so you can use the other side. This not only saves you money but is environmentally friendlier than recycling.

* Shop and ship smart. Saving the environment doesn't mean you need to forgo modern conveniences like online shopping and overnight shipping.

When you are checking out online, buy in bulk instead. And when you're sending a package, try to put more items in the same box (or use a smaller box) than you normally would.

Recycled boxes, packing paper and bubble wrap are available in most superstores. If you have extra packing material that you can't reuse, find a recycler near you by visiting the peanut hotline at www.loosefillpackaging.com.

* Be an example. That means doing your part, even if others or management are not yet on the bandwagon.

You can start simply by keeping a stack of reusable plates and cups in the office to use instead of the paper variety, or by turning off the lights when you leave for the night, or if no one is using a room. It works at your own home, so why not at the office?

* Commute less. More companies are hiring remote and mobile workers all the time, and with technology advances it's easier than ever to work from anywhere and still feel part of the team.