World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated every year on 5th June to raise global awareness of environmental issues. It has grown over the years and is now widely celebrated by stakeholders in over 100 countries.

World Environment Day is also known as the ‘people’s day’ – when we as individuals are encouraged to do something positive for the environment. Given that most of us spend the majority of our time in the workplace, where better to focus your efforts. Check out these recycle tips to help get you started.

4 Top Tips for Recycling at Work

  1. Start with Yourself

The easiest way to kick-start recycling efforts in the workplace is to start with yourself. Remember that adopting just a few recycling habits can make all the difference. Send documents via email and only print what you need. Make use of coffee mugs instead of disposable cups and if you take your lunch to work, try to avoid plastic bags and get yourself some reusable containers or thermos.

  1. Learn what to Recycle

recycling tips for the officeTake time to learn what can be recycled in your workplace. Common items in the office include:

  • Paper – printed paper, used envelopes, unwanted files
  • Old newspapers and magazines
  • Cardboard boxes
  • Printer toner cartridges
  • Old computers and mobile phones
  1. Develop Green Habits

Start to develop some good habits in the workplace so that your recycling efforts become second nature. For example, reuse scrap paper for taking notes, used envelopes for internal mail and cardboard boxes for storage purposes. Keep a small recycling box at your desk so that you only need to go to your work recycling bins once your box is full. Keep a reusable shopping bag at work just in case you need to pop to the shops at lunchtime. Switch off your computer to save power and the lights if you’re the last person to leave.

  1. Pass on Your Tips

Once you’ve got the hang of recycling, why not pass on your tips to your colleagues. Send an email or put up a flyer in the office kitchen letting everyone know it is World Environment Day on 5th June. Take the opportunity to reinforce the importance of protecting the environment and encourage everyone to recycle and adopt green practices.