ParentingHub

SAVE ENERGY
1. Switch to CFLs. Compact fluorescent bulbs use about 75 percent less energy and last ten times longer than incandescents.

2. Use Power Strips. Did you know? -Chargers for cell phones, mp3 players, and other gadgets still suck energy out of the wall when devices are fully charged and even when not attached to their mates. To save energy, unplug them or use a power strip, which can be turned off altogether. By also plugging printers, computers, and other electronics into power strips, you can flip a switch and turn them off completely. Left on standby mode, electronics account for 5 to 20 percent of your electricity bill.

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE
3. Don't Use Disposable Goods. Keep reusable forks and spoons and a cup at your desk. If you buy a take- away for lunch, carry it back in a cloth bag instead of a plastic one.

4. Think Before You Print. If you don't need a hard copy, don't print. Otherwise, print double-sided on recycled paper. Consider getting rid of your fax, too; this little-used machine stays plugged in all the time and wastes paper. Instead, use efax.com, a website that allows you to receive faxes as e-mail attachments, suggests eco expert Danny Seo, author of the Simply Green book series.

5. Save Boxes and Bubble Wrap. If you get a lot of packages, Seo suggests bringing the packing materials home and creating a mailing center in a cupboard (it will come in handy during the holidays). Or ask your local courier or other shipping company if it will take your used Styrofoam peanuts.

6. Ask the Company to Recycle. If your office doesn't recycle paper, bottles, and other materials, form a "green team" with co–workers and start a program.

FURNISH WISELY
7. Consider Vintage. When you need new office furniture, visit used furniture outlets or second hand stores.

8. Shop for Green Materials. When buying decor, look for items made of eco-friendly materials like bamboo. Purchase office items that are made from recycled or Earth-friendly elements. These include eco-friendly workstations, recycled pencils, and rechargeable batteries.

9. Add Plants. Some potted plants help remove pollutants such as formaldehyde from the air. They also help create a peaceful, grounding vibe for the office.

10. Avoid chemical cleaning products in favour of natural cleaning ones. Baking soda, vinegar, or orange oil can replace almost any chemical cleaner.

11. Stop microwaving your food at the office. Microwaving changes the protein structure of food making it potentially-harmful to your body. Microwaves also emit radiation that can be damaging to people standing near them. Prepare a homemade lunch with organic food, and then bring it to work using reusable containers. Use a lunch box or cooler that you can continue using day after day. This will also eliminate the unnecessary packaging that comes with restaurant and vending machine foods.