Ten Simple Steps

If you want some simple actions that you can start straight away, this list is a good starting point:

1. Switch off when not in use. Turn off unnecessary lights and equipment, especially at the end of the day. Screen savers don’t save any energy, so also turn the monitor off when you’ll be away from your desk for more than a few minutes during the day. Turn off unused appliances at the wall (e.g. cellphone chargers, microwaves, televisions).
    
2. Find out about what can and can’t be recycled in your area. Make it easy with large, clearly marked recycling bins, and smaller rubbish bins for other waste.
    
3. Eliminate disposables: cups, plates, plastic cutlery, and paper towels. Replace with reusable / washable alternatives.
    
4. Adjust your printer default setting to the double sided option if available. Reuse paper printed on only one side for scrap paper.
    
5. Change to biodegradable cleaning products, such as those endorsed by Environmental Choice New Zealand.
    
6. Take the Fuelsaver test and pick one bad driving habit to change.
    
7. Replace old lightbulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent lightbulbs.
    
8. Schedule monthly meetings for your business to discuss sustainability ideas of what’s working well and what’s not.
    
9. Record your monthly electricity, gas, fuel and waste usage, and monitor what impact your changes are having. This will enable you to communicate and celebrate your success. For help click here.
    
10. Make someone in your business responsible for finding out about and implementing sustainable initiatives, and arm them with chocolate fish to reward people who participate.