Conservation/Environment
Energy News
Think green at the office as well as at home
Here are some tips, compiled by PUD staff, to help reduce your impact on the environment while at work:
1. Use both sides of a piece of paper
Print double-sided. Some printers have this feature installed, which you can check by clicking the Properties button next to the printer you select. Click here for instructions from Hewlett Packard on setting up double-sided printing. On simpler printers (such as ones used at home), just turn the paper over and re-insert it in the paper tray.
2. No more staples
Making staples leaves a huge carbon footprint while creating a product that is used once. For small stacks of paper, use a paperclip or staple-free stapler such as these from amazon.com. Binder clips work for longer documents.
3. Unplug electronics not in use
Even when it’s not connected to your cell phone, the charger draws electricity. Conserve energy by unplugging chargers and electronic equipment when they are not in use. Power strips make it easy to control energy flow to multiple items.
4. Minimize waste
Instead of bringing bottled water, drink the filtered water available at office coolers. Or bring a bottle of tap water; our water is clean and tastes good. Avoid using foam cups and plastic flatware; bring your own dishes and silverware from home.
5. Recycle CDs
Plastic just piles up in landfills. For the cost of a stamp, you can send old CDs or DVDs to a recycling center where the plastic can be reclaimed.
6. Improve air quality
Bring in a small houseplant to brighten your workspace and absorb some indoor pollution.
Take these tips home:
1. Recycle old electronics
Starting Jan. 1, 2009, manufacturers of computers, monitors and televisions are required by state law to provide free electronic recycling services. Check out the Department of Ecology for an easy way to find recycling centers in your area.
2. Stop junk mail
Eliminating the junk mail you receive will save in both production and resources. Register at the Direct Marketing Association to have your address removed.
3. Keep unwanted items out of the landfill
Instead of throwing away the toys your kids don’t play with anymore, donate them to a second-hand store like Goodwill or Salvation Army. Or check out Freecycle and join the Wenatchee group to give away your items or find a free treasure.
4. Reduce meat-centered meals
While going vegetarian isn’t for everyone, try eating meat-free for one meal a week. Meat production creates more greenhouse gas than transportation, according to the United Nations.
5. Start composting
Create your own fertilizer from banana peels and egg shells in a homemade compost pile. For more information on making compost, check out this guide.