Top 30 Tips for How to Maintain an Environmentally-Friendly Home Office

If operating a greener Home Business is important to you follow these simple tips to get started. Ensure the technology and equipment you are using is running as efficiently as possible, generating the least amount of waste, saving you money on electricity in the process.

1. Choose operating systems and software you can upgrade instead of purchasing a new computer.
2. Explore a lease option for a computer if you know you need the most up to date computer.
3. Look for energy star rating when you purchase a computer.
4. Purchase a brand new computer rarely and donate the old one to a charity such as a school or battered womens shelter.
5. Use small computers and laptops which can use less energy.
6. Use programmable powerstrips so all competer/printers go off at the same time.
7. Use an older version of a printer or only purchase a new printer once every 3 to 4 years.
8. Only use your scanner for needed projects/presentations.
9. Power down your computer to hibernate when you go to take lunch or a nap-less energy is used.
10. Keep the new computer for business/finance/work/school and an old computer for games.

Reduce wasted paper and other office supplies with these ideas:

1. Barter with fellow home workers office supplies when you have excess quantities.
2. Buy office supplies in bulk and store in a dry, safe place.
3. E-mail instead of mailing paperwork/projects to save the expense.
4. Print on both sides of your paper.
5. Proofread on the computer screen before making a final print.
6. Recycle used ink-jet cartridges.
7. Request electronic invoices from your suppliers/vendors and send electronic invoices for your bills.
8. Reuse paper for internal communication and new paper for external business (ex. contracts).
9. Teach your family to barter/exchange/recycle/reuse.
10. Watch television programs related to environmental issues for additional ideas.

Furniture and other big budget items can put a dent in your wallet as well as the environment. Buying used instead of new is always recomended, as well as recycling or donating when possible.

1. Add a pillow to a chair to make a design change and postpone a purchase.
2. Donate old furniture of good quality to community centers, senior citizen groups, shelters, and schools.
3. Exchange furniture when you feel the need for a new item.
4. Keep all receipts/warranties if a replacement is needed.
5. Place a durable slip cover over a couch instead of purchasing a new one.
6. Purchase one good ergonomic chair for daily use and an inexpensive one for occasional use (reading the daily newspaper).
7. Paint and refurbish old cabinets, desks, and tables or hire a fellow homeworker to do this task.
8. Research books, magazines, and newpapers for inexpensive office funiture.
9. Visit a local garage sale for good prices on desired furniture.
10. Watch for signs of wear and decide if you can postpone the purchase unless possible danger (ex. unstable chair).

A eco-friendly home office is possible and it does not have to be costly.