This is not an exhaustive list of steps that you can take as a department to make sure that your office space is as sustainable as possible, but this is a great place to start!

 

Contact the PACES team for an in-depth assessment of your department or for more information!

 

  • Maximize use of natural light by turning off overhead lights when not in use.
  • Plug electronics into a power strip and turn them off when not in use.
  • Enable energy-saving measures on 75% of departmental computers including Sleep, Power-Save, and Hibernation during the day, and turning off devices at the end of the day.
  • Implement centralized printer and refrigerator spaces to limit the number of personal appliances. 
    • Keep printers and copy machines away from kitchens and food preparation areas.
    • Have an old refrigerator? Replace it through the Refrigerator Rebate Program!
  • Establish a “First In, First Out” policy regarding cleaners and other chemicals.
  • Inform department staff where the nearest Hydration Station is located.
  • Add a filtered water dispenser in the office kitchen to allow staff to refill reusable water bottles.
  • Report any leaks to Facilities and turn off all faucets when not in use to reduce water use.
  • Print double-sided to reduce paper waste.
  • Properly sort recyclable, compostable, and landfill waste. Questions? Contact PACES or AS Recycling for more information.
    • Implement signage on all bins (printable versions here!). 
  • Know where your closest e-waste collection bin is located and dispose of materials properly.
    • Contact AS Recycling to establish an e-waste bin in your building!
  • Purchase office supplies with products made from recycled materials.
  • Ensure products are given third-party certifications such as Green Seal, ENERGY STAR, EPEAT, or Safer Choice.
  • Utilize the Sustainable Furniture Guide (coming soon!) when purchasing office furniture. 
  • Use reusable rags and towels instead of disposable paper towels.
  • Use reusable mugs, containers, and cutlery in the kitchen/break room.
  • Encourage departmental staff to use alternative transportation options by promoting carpooling, Zipcar, or public transportation.
  • TAP Commuter Options have benefits such as complimentary parking, discounted monthly MTD passes, and up to 6 days of complimentary campus parking each quarter.
  • Utilize the Business Travel Assessment to reduce the environmental impact of travel.
  • If your department hosts events, buy organic or locally produced food.
    • Look for certifications such as Certified Humane, Fair Trade Certified, or USDA Organic.
  • Include vegetarian or vegan options on the menu, and use, donate, or compost leftover food.
  • Provide beverages in bulk and encourage guests to bring reusable cups and cutlery to reduce waste.
  • For campus events, ask your Campus Catering sales representative to confirm adherence to these guidelines!
  • Develop a sustainability plan/policy for your department.
  • Host sustainability training events or informational sessions (contact PACES!).
  • Solicit feedback from department occupants on sustainability efforts.