The NonProfit Center encourages staff and board members to look at ways to improve the nonprofit workplace and the processes used there with the environment in mind. Here are a few strategies to start with:

Improve recycling efforts for paper, plastic, aluminum and other materials to reduce your office waste. If you are in Massachusetts, you can find potential recycling service providers in your organization’s neighborhood, through WasteCap’s “Recycling Services Directory.” The directory lists over 400 vendors who accept, collect or purchase recyclable materials from Massachusetts communities and businesses. It provides links to help those of you outside of the Commonwealth to find resources in your own area.

Buy office papers with postconsumer recycled content. In spite of recent advances in communications technologies, office paper remains a high-use item in most organizations. Manufacturing of office paper requires heavy use of energy, water and wood, while generating air and water pollution and waste. Purchasing paper products containing postconsumer content makes a difference. For more information, see the many resources made available by Conservatree.

Reduce energy consumption. Energy conservation benefits our environment and your organization’s bottom line. For more information about conserving energy at work, contact your contracted utility.