10 Ways Businesses Can Save Money by Going Green

1. Replace Office Lighting With Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

Florescent bulbs require 75% less energy then traditional bulbs. By using florescent bulbs it can drastically reduce energy usage. In addition fluorescent bulbs last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs, which means you wont have to replace them as often. 

2. Use Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Paper

Many have the preconceived thoughts that PCR paper is lower quality from past experiences. In fact PCR paper's quality has improved and is now seen as relatively equal to standard paper. The benefit is that PCR paper is offered around 10-20% cheaper. 

3. Use Remanufactured Ink and Toner Cartridges

Remanufacutred ink and toner cartridges are about 15% cheaper than standard brands. Additionally by returning one remanufactured ink cartridge you are saving about 2.5 pounds of metal and plastic from a landfill. 

4. Buy Energy Star Electronics

Energy Star Electronic devices cut about 75% percent of energy usage compared to standard devices. This can save a lot of money in the long run by replacing your standard models.  On a national scale Energy Star devices save American's annually about 3.5 Billion dollars. Energy Star offers a wide variety of printers, copiers, computers, and fax machines. 

5. Go Paperless - Buy Digital Storage Solutions to Cut Down on Paper

Digital Storage systems reduce the number of paper copies needed. This can cut printing costs and be more eco-friendly by making these objects accessible electronically. Also it makes finding and locating objects easier and more convenient than searching for paper documents. In the long run you will cut office supply expenses for reducing the need for folders, paper, ink, and cabinets to store this information. 

6. Invest in Power Strips

Nearly three quarters of an office's power is could be consumed when machines are turned off. If you have a power strip you can plug all of your office machines into them. If you turn the power strip off when leaving the office at night you can cut down the monthly electric bill and prevent a waste of electricity.

7. Harness the Power of Daylight Wherever Possible

Try using daylight whenever possible because it can cut down electrical costs. If you have big windows in your business, office, or conference room, try using the natural sunlight. This practice will lower your electrical bill. 

8. Turn Off Conference Room or Office Lights When Not in Use

If you can install a motion sensor timer for the office this will save a considerable amount of money. The motion sensors will keep the light activated in a room until it doesn't detect anymore movement. This helps because people often forget to turn lights off in rooms,and it will ensure that lights are turned off when an area is not in use. 

9. Consider Eco-Friendly Travel Options

If you are travel for close routine destinations consider using a train rather than flying. Traveling by a train is cheaper and does not waste fuel. Although it may take longer to reach your destination you will save a lot of money over a long period of time. Additionally, companies should consider purchasing hybrid company cars. The company will cut down gas charged to the corporate account. 

10. Check Out GreenPrint to Cut Down on Wasted Printing

Try using the software GreenPrint. This softwear helps identify and reduce the waste. It reduces the waste of paper by alerting the user of possible wasted space (i.e.- a page with only a website at the bottom of the page). The software even tracks savings per use so that you can see how much you are saving.  

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