Office and Facility Best Practices

Take a moment to look through these best practices. Ask yourself:

These examples show how everyday office decisions can support sustainability:

Go Digital – Use emails, digital memos, and shared files instead of paper whenever possible. Print only when necessary.
Double-Sided Printing – Set printers to double-sided by default to cut paper use in half.
Recycled Paper – Choose 100% post-consumer recycled, chlorine-free paper for printing and marketing.
Reuse Supplies – Set up a station for employees to reuse gently used office supplies, furniture, and electronics.
Non-Toxic Products – Use eco-friendly cleaners and pest control methods to protect health and reduce chemical exposure.
Efficient Equipment – Use ENERGY STAR-certified appliances and turn off devices when not in use.
Modular Carpet Tiles – Install carpet tiles that can be replaced one at a time to reduce waste and extend flooring life.
Green Catering – Use local or certified sustainable caterers for meetings and events.
Fair Trade Beverages – Offer Fair Trade and organic coffee and tea in break rooms.
Paperless Payroll – Use direct deposit and digital pay stubs to cut back on paper.
Rent Equipment – Rent tools and equipment you don’t use often instead of buying.
Prevent Bird Collisions – Install window decals or films to help protect birds from striking windows.
Cut Junk Mail – Use services like the DMA Mail Preference Service to reduce unwanted mail.
Offer Telecommuting – Allow employees to work from home when possible to save energy and reduce commuting emissions.

Let’s Reflect on Office and Facility Practices

What Are You Doing Now?

What steps have you taken to reduce waste, conserve energy, or use sustainable products?
Are employees engaged in sustainability efforts at the office?
Are you using any of the best practices above—or even going beyond them?

What’s Next?

What ideas do you have for new sustainability initiatives in your workspace?
How do your purchasing choices and vendors reflect your environmental values?
Could you use your office space more efficiently (shared work areas, plants, or green spaces)?
Are there new technologies or systems you want to try?