Earth Day 2024: A Call to Action for Greener Workspaces

Earth Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a movement that reminds us of our responsibility to cherish and protect the only planet we have. As we confront the challenge of climate change, it’s essential to reduce our carbon footprint both at home and in the workplace.

This Earth Day let’s create an eco-friendlier workplace by incorporating sustainable practices into our daily routines. Every small step counts towards a greener tomorrow, and here are some easy ways to reduce your carbon footprint and make a positive environmental impact right from your desk:

1. Mindful Printing

Think before you print! If it’s essential, choose recycled paper and embrace double-sided printing. to cut down on waste.

According to the EPA, double-sided printing can decrease paper waste by 10 – 40%.

2. Embrace Efficient Transportation

Transform your daily commute into an eco-friendly journey. Opt for biking, public transportation or carpooling to shrink your carbon footprint and ease traffic congestion.

A study commissioned by Sun Microsystems discovered that an average employee’s journey to work constitutes 98% of their total office-related carbon emissions. You can change that!

3. Use Reusable Cups, Plates & Utensils

Single-use is out, and sustainability is in! Carry a reusable water bottle or thermos for coffee or water and avoid single-use plastics and Styrofoam.

In addition, suggest to your employer that your office buys recycled plates, utensils, straws and other tableware for employees to use. Biodegradable options, such as bamboo, wheat, or corn are much better for the environment.

4. Adjust Monitor Brightness

Lower the brightness of your computer screen or monitor from 100% to 70%.

A simple tweak can lead to a significant energy saving of up to 20% according to Harvard University’s energy manager.

5. Opt for Eco-Conscious Products

Choose to buy office furniture that has a minimal carbon footprint and reduced packaging to promote environmental sustainability.

The Steelcase Karman task chair was specifically designed with the planet in mind, it uses sustainable materials and the least number of components necessary. As a result, this led to the Karman only weighing 29 pounds, making it one of the lightest task chairs in the industry!

The Karman is designed with the fewest components necessary but is still incredibly strong with ergonomic support and breakthrough comfort. Learn more about the Karman here.