How can you make your workplace sustainable?

Sustainability is the order of the day – we encounter the topic everywhere, whether in the media, in politics or when shopping. But have you ever thought about how sustainable your workplace actually is? After all, we spend a large part of our day in the office. It stands to reason that we can also make a contribution to environmental protection here.

But don't worry, you don't have to turn your whole working life upside down. Often it's the small changes in everyday life that make a big difference. We'll show you how you can make your workplace more sustainable with simple means – for the environment and for your own conscience!

1. say goodbye to paper

Paper is a real resource guzzler – a whole three liters of water are needed to produce a single sheet. Then there's the energy, chemicals and, of course, lots of wood. So it's high time to reduce paper consumption in the office!

Here are a few tips on how to do it:

• Switch to digital processes wherever possible. Use e-mails, electronic signatures and digital archiving instead of printouts and folders.
  
• If you do need to print something, print it double-sided and in black and white. This saves paper and toner.
• Use scratch paper for internal notes or drafts.
• Question every printout: Do I really need this on paper?

With these simple measures, you can easily reduce your paper consumption – good for the environment and your wallet!

2. Use energy wisely

Computers, printers, lighting – technology is in full swing in the office all day. This not only consumes electricity, but also produces a lot of heat. With a few clever tricks, you can significantly reduce energy consumption at your workplace:

• Always turn off devices when you don't need them. Standby mode is a real power guzzler!
  
• Use energy-efficient devices and lighting, for example computers with the Energy Star label or LED lamps.
• Activate the energy-saving function on your PC so that it goes into sleep mode when inactive.
• Be aware when heating and ventilating: every degree less saves 6% energy. Short, sharp ventilation is much more efficient than leaving a window permanently open.
  

Even with these small behavioral changes, you can save a lot of energy - and thus actively contribute to climate protection.

3. Sustainable commuting

The daily commute to work contributes a large part to our personal CO2 footprint. So there is enormous potential here to make your daily work more sustainable. The alternative to the car does not have to be uncomfortable or time-consuming:

• Use public transport or carpool with colleagues if possible.
• For shorter distances, the bicycle is a good option – it also keeps you fit!
• If the nature of the work allows it, working from home can also be an option to reduce commuting distances.
• Many companies also offer subsidies for job tickets or company bicycles – find out about the options!
  

Every kilometer you don't travel by car is a win for the environment. So, hop on the bike or hop on the bus – the journey is the reward!

4. Green office supplies

A lot of waste can also be avoided and resources can be saved when purchasing office supplies. When shopping, look for environmentally friendly alternatives:

• give preference to products made from recycled materials, such as recycled paper, environmentally friendly decorative paper or refillable pens.
• Choose products with the Blue Angel or other recognized environmental labels.
• Avoid disposable products such as plastic cups or cutlery. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives.
  
• Check whether things can be repaired or refurbished before you buy them new.

A little mindfulness when shopping can have a big impact – on the environment and often on the office budget, too.

5. Everyone pulls together

Sustainability in the workplace is a team effort. The more colleagues that participate, the greater the effect. So talk to your employees, share your ideas and encourage each other to be environmentally conscious.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can make your workplace greener together:

• Start sustainability initiatives such as a carpooling exchange or an internal flea market.
  
• Organize workshops or lectures on topics such as energy saving or waste separation.
• Suggest sustainable improvements to management, for example, switching to green electricity or improving bicycle parking.
• Celebrate your successes together and make your environmental actions visible. This motivates and attracts others!

As a community, you can achieve a lot and make your workplace more sustainable step by step. So what are you waiting for? Get started!

Sustainability is not a sprint, but a marathon. Every little change in your daily work routine is a step in the right direction. Don't get discouraged if not everything goes perfectly right away – the important thing is to keep at it and keep going. Over time, the new habits will become routine and you will realize how much fun it is to be part of the solution.

So, start your personal Green Office Challenge today. Find fellow campaigners, set goals and reinvent your workplace – make it greener, healthier and more sustainable. The environment and future generations will thank you for it!