60 ways to be more eco-friendly in 2020

It's time we all took responsibility for our planet's future before it is too late! There's loads of small ways we can make a difference and reduce our carbon footprint, both at home and in the workplace.

We've compiled a list of 60 great ways to be more eco-friendly throughout 2020, some you may even be doing already!

At work:

Waste:

Think before you print any documents that may not be necessary. Manage colleagues print habits using print management software - default duplex printing etc. Consider going paperless, or nearly paperless - is it feasible for your business? Make the most of paper recycling bins. Encourage the use of refillable bottles and cups. Recycle plastic bottles and photocopier toner cartridges. Reuse packaging and packing labels. Reuse scrap paper - why bother with post-it notes? Use electronic devices to make notes, instead of the traditional paper and pen. Cut down on packing waste - consider using shredded paper that you may already have lying around.

Energy use:

Implement LED lightbulbs. Install solar panels, or... Switch energy providers to one that uses largely sustainable energy sources. Switch off energy-consuming devices when not in use. Turn off lights when not needed. Make the most of natural sunlight when possible. Switch to more energy-efficient devices - e.g. computers, printers, photocopiers. Reduce or replace inefficient, outdated electronic devices. When purchasing new office equipment, look for ENERGY STAR approved devices. Choose laptops over desktop computers.

CO2:

Try car sharing with colleagues who live locally or somewhere along your commute. Consider cycling, walking, or running to work. Public transport is a great way to commute - you can even use it to work on the go! Introduce work from home policies - remote working has never been easier. Hold meetings online using video conferencing or VOIP systems instead of travelling from place to place. Introduce electric or hybrid company cars and support vehicles. Be efficient with central heating - don't have the heating on if there are windows open. Provide fresh, meat-free snacks and refreshments - promote meat-free initiatives. Take part in a free sustainability audit - get in touch to arrange your audit. Offset devices with tree planting - we plant a tree for every business inkjet print device we install in order to provide a carbon-neutral solution.

At home:

Waste:

Avoid single-use plastics such as clingfilm. Avoid food waste buy not over-buying. Keep leftover food to be used again. Recycle plastic and metal containers. Recycle paper and cardboard. Use your own carrier bags at the supermarket. Say no to plastic straws. Buy foods loose rather than in plastic packaging where possible. Opt for looseleaf tea - tea bags are made with plastic. Ditch the fancy coffee machine - those pods are single-handedly destroying the planet.

Energy use:

Opt for LED light bulbs. Install solar panels, or... Switch energy providers to one that uses largely sustainable energy sources. Switch off energy-consuming devices when not in use. Turn off lights when not needed. Make the most of natural sunlight when possible. Buy appliances with a good energy rating. Don't boil a full kettle every time, only boil the amount of water you need. Be less reliant on your oven, use a microwave to cook and heat food. Only use your dishwasher or washing machine when it is completely full.

CO2:

Try car sharing with colleagues. Consider cycling, walking, or running instead of using a car. Use public transport when possible instead of travelling by car. Buy an electric or hybrid car instead of petrol or diesel. Be efficient with central heating - don't have the heating on if there are windows open. Turn down your thermostat - just put on an extra layer if needed. Eat healthy, meat-free meals - take part in meat-free initiatives such as Meatless Mondays. Buy locally or regionally in order to reduce transportation. Insulate your house. Invest in double glazing.

It's as easy as that! Hopefully, there are a few tricks that you can fit into your home life as well as at work. Does your business require a free sustainability audit? Get in touch to arrange it here.

For more information about our sustainable inkjet print technology - click here.