How Can a Small Business on a Limited Budget Go Green?

To go green in your office, start by figuring out what types of recycling programs are in your area. Once you decide which type of recycling program you’ll use, the next step is to figure out what you’ll recycle. The most commonly recycled office items include newspapers, boxes, paper, plastic and glass. Electronics such as computers and cell phones can be recycled, too, but you’ll want to check with your recycling center to make sure they can be dropped off at the same location. Of course, there are costs associated with going “green”, as recycled products are often more expensive than their counterparts, so here are some steps a small business on a limited budget can take to go green:

1. Provide recycling bins for plastic, glass, and paper.
2. Put computers on “standby” or in “hibernation” mode when they haven’t been accessed for more than 10 minutes; turn them completely off when you’re finished working for the day.
3. Buy a scanner and Adobe Pro (so you can complete forms, sign them, and email them right back) to cut down on the paper trail, ink, printer power, etc.
4. Buy recycled products whenever possible.
5. Buy energy efficient light bulbs.
6. Use a programmable thermostat to control the air conditioning and heat.