We spend most of our waking life at the office - these are some of the little things you can do there to reduce waste and improve the planet. Many of these suggestions can even save your office money over time! Also check out the Earth 911 page for information on buying Environmentally Preferred Products (EPP). There are 26 eco-friendly choices you can make in this category.

Use 100% post consumer recycled printer paper

... you'll save 5 lbs. of carbon dioxide per ream of paper!

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Close drapes or blinds in warmer months

This will keep the sunshine from overheating your house. Do the opposite in the colder months to give your thermostat a break.

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Add air-cleaning plants

Plants not only brighten up a room, they help keep the air clean! Shoot for at least one 4-5 ft plant per 100 square feet.

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Recycle/refill printer cartridges

If you use inkjet printers, buy replacement ink and refill them when they are empty. There are also several programs that will allow you to send in your empty ink and laserjet printer cartrdiges for recycling.

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Make sure your eco-efforts aren't wasted

Verify with local waste management that recyclables are truly being recycled.

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Never flush “flushable” applicators, wipes

While the manufacturers may say it's flushable, what they mean is that it won't clog your toilet - but every year, tens of thousands of applicators wind up on the shores of our beaches.

You can also try this: at home and at school

Use a water filter and refillable water bottle

Americans spend millions of dollars a year on bottled water, which adds to the amount of plastic containers thrown away every day. By purchasing a refillable water bottle and using fiiltered water, you can greatly reduce waste and save yourself a bundle!

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Choose re-usable containers for lunch

Use a lunch box or insulated cooler for lunch in lieu of a paper or plastic sack.

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Reduce lunchroom waste

Bring home sandwich baggies and other plastic bags to be washed out and re-used

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Cut your vampire power!

Vampire Power: Not Dracula, but the home electronics we leave on standby: TV, printer, DC re-chargers and converters… they cost you and the country almost $100 million worth of WASTED electricity each year.

You can also try this: for kids, for teachers, for companies, at school, at home and for parents

Pick up trash

If you see trash on the street or neighborhood, pick it up! Even if it's not your garbage, its still your planet!

You can also try this: at home, at school and while shopping

Reduce water waste

Turn off the water when brushing your teeth and when “making bubbles” while washing your hands.

You can also try this: at school and at home

Donate unused clothing and other items

Rather than throwing away unused clothing and items that are in good shape, consider donating them to your local church, Goodwill, or other charity. Many charities will even work with you to schedule a pick-up time.

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Recycle at the office

Recycle office and computer paper, cardboard, etc. whenever possible. Use scrap paper for informal notes to yourself and others.

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Primitive? Nah - Energy saving!

Avoid using electrical appliances for things you can easily do by hand, such as opening cans.

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Carpool

When heading to work or school, share a car with a friend! You'll both save money on gas, you'll reduce the amount of pollutants you're producing - and maybe even squeeze in a quick nap on days you're not driving!

You can also try this: at school

Ride your bike or walk

When you don't have far to go, try riding your bike or walking instead of getting a ride in a car. You'll help save energy, lessen the amount of air pollution, and you'll keep healthy and fit, too!

You can also try this: at school and at home

Give your employees the option to telecommute!

If it works for the job they do, offer the ability to work from home as an option to employees. You'll help them save a bundle on gas, and cut down on emissions - and they'll love how progressive and cool you are!

Recycle everything you can!

You benefit either directly or when local taxes are kept lower by reduced disposal costs.

You can also try this: at home, at school, in the yard, for companies, for teachers, for kids and for parents

Buy fish that are caught in an environmentally responsible manner

If you choose to eat fish, you can help keep the marine ecosystem healthy, without compromising freshness and taste by making smart buying choices.

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Check the numbers on the bottom of plastic products

On the bottom of every plastic product, (including body lotion bottles, soda and water bottles, contact lenses, etc.), there is a number printed that corresponds to the kind of plastic used. If there is no number, the item isn't recyclable.

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Use phosphate-free soap for car washes

Whether you're just washing your car at home, or doing a full-scale group fundraising car wash event, be sure to use phosphate free soap. At your fundraising car washes, be sure to advertise that your car wash is eco-friendly to spread awareness.

You can also try this: at school, at home and for teachers

Plan a community event

Coordinate an event at work, at your school or within your community that helps raise awareness about environmental issues such as recycling, waste reduction and conservation.

You can also try this: at school, at home, for companies and for teachers

Use rechargeable batteries

Disposable batteries are expensive and wasteful. Although rechargable battery sets can be slightly more expensive up-front, you'll save a lot of money in the long-term. You can save up to $1200 a year!

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Steer away from disposable cups - and B.Y.O.C./M.

Hide the throw-away cups, and train people to use their washable coffee mugs. Use washable mugs for meetings too. Be sure to Bring Your Own Cup/Mug and set a good example!

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Put your money where your mouth is

Donate to charities that have positive impacts on the environment. Check with your employer to see if they will match your donation to make your money go even further.

You can also try this: at home