On June 5, the world is to celebrate Environmental Day! This day was organized by the United Nations to promote global environment awareness, education and action.
In honor of this World Environmental Day, choose five of these simple ways that will make a difference at work and at home:
Lighten Up and Power Down
· Turn off lights in unused rooms and work areas and at end of day
· Set your computer’s “Power Options” to the “energy star” option or better
· Turn off computers, monitors, printers, and heaters at the end of the day
· Unplug chargers and electronics when not in use
· Turn off laboratory or processing equipment at the end of the day or end of shift
· Report and repair equipment malfunctions and compressed air leaks
· Set thermostats to 68 in winter, 72 in summer
Save Fuel
· Carpool for work, meetings and events, and walk or bike if traveling short distances
· Use phone and video conferencing to reduce travel needs
· Keep vehicles tuned and tires properly inflated to improve gas mileage
Save Paper
· View, share, edit and file documents, agendas and e-mails electronically
· Use a projector for presentations and meetings
· Print and copy double-sided (use duplex units) and reuse the blank side of documents
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
· Recycle and compost as much as possible
· Use a reusable water bottle, mug, plates, cups and utensils at home, work and on-the-go
Be Water-wise
· Report and/or repair leaky faucets, hoses, and toilets
· Turn off spigots and hoses when not in use
· Turn off faucet when soaping hands, brushing teeth or shaving
· Sweep or scrape debris off equipment, patios, etc. before using water to wash them
· Water lawns and gardens in the early morning or evening
