How to source sustainable office supplies
7 + 1 tips for a more sustainable workplace
Over the past few years, sustainability has become one of the top priorities for many companies across all industries. While efforts to reduce our environmental footprint often centre on energy consumption and waste management, sustainable office supplies also have a key role to play in fostering a greener workplace.
Read our experts’ ideas and best practices for introducing sustainable office supplies that help businesses to contribute to a more environmentally friendly future.
Tip 1: Opt for recycled and recyclable materials
When buying office supplies, choose products that are made from recycled materials. Look for products with a high content of recycled material, such as recycled printer paper, notebooks and arch files and binders. Plus, choose items that are themselves recyclable, as this will ensure that they don’t end up in regular landfills or incinerators after use.
Bear in mind that the packaging in which the product reaches you should also be recyclable and/or made from recycled materials.
Lyreco TIP:
How do we decide which products belong to the Sustainable Selection by Lyreco range?
At least 80% by weight of the product packaging must be made from recyclable materials; and
At least 80% by weight of the product material must be made from recyclable materials, or it must be possible to reuse the product
Tip 2: Make use of digital solutions
Cutting down on paper consumption is an effective way of increasing your workplace’s sustainability. Whenever possible, use digital alternatives such as using electronic documents, email and cloud storage for file sharing. Adopting paperless workflows not only saves on resources, but also streamlines operations and reduces clutter.
Tip 3: Energy-saving office equipment
When purchasing office equipment, consider how economical each piece of equipment is. Look for appliances with labels certifying that they meet stringent energy-efficiency standards. Energy-efficient printers, copiers and computers not only lower electricity consumption, but in the long run also reduce operating costs.
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Tip 4: Environmentally friendly writing implements
Replace conventional plastic pens with eco-friendly alternatives. Choose pens made from recycled materials or opt for fountain pens, which greatly reduce plastic waste. Another idea is to use pencils made from sustainably sourced wood or recycled materials.
Give our most popular recycled pen a go!
Tip 5: Sustainable packaging
When ordering office supplies, pay attention to the packaging. Look for suppliers that prioritise sustainable packaging practices, such as using a minimum amount of packaging materials or relying on recycled and biodegradable packaging.
Tip 6: Promote reusability and repairability
Encourage staff to embrace reusable alternatives wherever possible. Provide refillable water bottles, coffee cups and lunch containers in order to keep disposable plastic waste to a minimum. Also, opt for repairable office equipment, as this extends its life and reduces the need for replacement.
Tip 7: Join forces with sustainable suppliers
Work with suppliers who make sustainability a priority, not just a marketing ploy. Look for suppliers that offer a full array of environmentally friendly products and show a commitment to sustainable practices, such as minimising their carbon footprint and backing reforestation initiatives. By teaming up with like-minded suppliers, you can do your part to make the supply chain greener.
Bonus tip: Educate and engage staff
Raise staff awareness of the importance of sustainable office supplies. Hold training sessions or workshops to enlighten them about sustainable practices and encourage their active participation. Foster a culture of sustainability in the workplace so that staff feel empowered to make environmentally conscious decisions.
Buying sustainable office supplies is a major step towards establishing an environmentally conscious workplace. By putting our recommendations into practice, businesses can dramatically shrink their carbon footprint and contribute to a better future for the planet. Small changes soon add up, and every eco-friendly choice counts towards creating a more sustainable office environment. Adopt these practices in your workplace and inspire others to share your quest for a greener, more sustainable workplace.
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