Family Resource Center

"Serving the community since 1976"

Green Office

HFC Goes Green

With rising energy costs and increased budget cuts, non-profits and businesses everywhere are looking for ways to reduce expenditures. One great way to save money and do something positive for the environment is to maintain a greener workplace. By reducing energy consumption and the amount of office supplies used organizations can reduce their carbon footprint and cut costs at the same time. In an effort to promote environmentally conscious activities at the agency, the Hispanic Family Center recently educated its staff on strategies to sustain a green office. Many staff welcomed the idea of conservation. “I am really excited to implement some of these practices. I think it’s a good idea to promote by setting an example for the rest of the community,” said Computer teacher, Carmen Lugo.

Heating, cooling, and powering office spaces are responsible for almost 40% of carbon dioxide emissions in the US. Utility usage alone accounts for about 39% of the energy used in a typical office. Workers can do simple things like adjust thermostats to help save energy. Increasing or decreasing the temperature a degree or two can cut heating or cooling bills by 2-3%, while adjusting thermostats three or four degrees can produce savings of 10% or more.

The average U.S. office worker goes through 10-12,000 sheets of copy paper a year. By printing or copying on both sides and reading electronic documents, employees can significantly reduce their paper consumption. Other ways to conserve include: using dishes instead of paper or Styrofoam products, turning lights off when not in the room, shutting computers down when not in usage, and fixing leaky faucets. Our actions have a direct impact on the environment; by being environmentally conscious we can preserve resources, save money, and reduce our carbon dioxide emissions. In a green office, workers can make simple changes to their work habits, and create big changes in the environment.

Resources:

Office Presentation: Being Green at the Workplace by Vanessa M. Graber

Take Action: Tips for Living an Environmentally Conscious Lifsetyle

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HISPANIC FAMILY CENTER

35-47 S. 29th St | Camden, NJ 08105 | 856-541-6985 | 856-963-2663 (fax)