Sustainable habits at work: simple ways to save money and protect the environment
In today’s world, sustainable habits at work are essential for both environmental protection and cost savings. With mounting ecological challenges and economic pressures, Smart Impulse recommends adopting eco-conscious practices at work as it can reduce both our carbon footprint and operational expenses. By making small changes, employees and organisations can play a key role in supporting a more sustainable future.
This winter, as a sustainable aware organisations it’s important to encourage responsible energy use among our employees, particularly during peak hours—8 am to 1 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm—to reduce the risk of power shortages.
Sustainable habits at work for energy efficiency and cost savings
Discover examples to make your workplace more sustainable. Here are simple yet impactful habits that can reduce energy consumption, decrease costs, and promote environmental stewardship.
- Manage Indoor Lighting Efficiently
Turn off all internal lighting in buildings during nights, weekends, and holidays. For daily operations, consider installing energy-efficient lighting systems with motion sensors or timers to save on unnecessary usage.
- Reduce Outdoor and Advertising Lighting
Minimise exterior lighting, including advertising lights, by turning them off by 1 am or earlier. Switching to energy-saving LED bulbs further enhances energy efficiency and reduces costs.
- Turn Off Computers and Monitors Completely
Instead of relying on sleep mode, fully shut down computers and monitors at the end of the day. A simple adjustment like reducing screen brightness can also cut down energy use.
- Use Switch-Controlled Power Strips
Plug devices into power strips with on/off switches, and turn them off before leaving. This prevents the “phantom” energy consumption that happens when devices are plugged in but not in use.
- Practice Eco-Friendly Email Management
Avoid sending large attachments when possible, and regularly delete outdated emails to reduce the load on data centers. This small habit can have a surprisingly positive impact on energy consumption.
- Limit Printing and Use Double-Sided Printing
Only print documents that are necessary, and always opt for double-sided printing to conserve paper. This saves resources and reduces waste in the workplace.
- Unplug Chargers When Not in Use
Phone chargers and similar devices consume power even when not actively charging. Unplug chargers after use to prevent unnecessary electricity drain.
- Optimise Heating Temperatures
Set heating according to occupancy needs: keep it at 19°C in occupied spaces, lower it to 16°C during non-occupied hours, and set it to 8°C if the building will be vacant for two days or more. This aligns with regulatory guidelines and conserves energy.
- Reduce Non-Essential Audiovisual Equipment Usage
Power down projectors, screens, and other audiovisual equipment in spaces like reception areas or break rooms when they’re not needed. This reduces overall energy consumption and keeps costs lower.
Building Sustainable Habits at work
These simple actions can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower operational costs. By integrating these practices into our daily routines, we contribute to a greener, more sustainable workplace. Small actions add up to make a meaningful difference in both environmental and financial outcomes for organisations.
And Now, It’s Your Turn to Take Action!
Do you want to consume better and explore all avenues for reducing and saving your electricity consumption? Ask for a full electricity consumption diagnosis with Smart Impulse and review your practices!
For any questions or information on how measurement technologies can contribute to your energy success, do not hesitate to contact a Smart Impulse expert via our contact form or by email at contact@smart-impulse.com.