Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Deconstructing the Mantra

Part Two: REUSE

January 20, 2010

Ten Ways to Reuse Existing Materials

1. Set up an office supply “Reuse” station that is close to the new office supplies. Keep it organized and easier to access than the new supplies. Encourage all employees to return paper clips, folders, pens, pencils, binders and other supplies not in use to the Reuse station.
2. Before tossing that box of business cards from a departed employee, consider using the blank reverse side of the card for document notes as opposed to purchasing new post-it notes.
3. Switch to refillable pens and mechanical pencils. Once a cheap pen has run out of ink, it’s only good for the trash bin.
4. Save the packing material from new office equipment to use in packages your own company sends out.
5. Donate office furniture to local nonprofit organizations.
6. Start an exchange bank with other businesses in your office park. Remember the saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” – it’s true for businesses as well.
7. If you’re doing a coffee shop run for the office, take ceramic mugs. You may save a few cents along with saving a few trees.
8. Shred newspapers and reuse for packaging material.
9. Avoid purchasing disposable plates and utensils by encouraging employees to use their own reusable plates and utensils at work.
10. Don’t dispose of those non-confidential document drafts. Stack them by the printer so the blank sides can be used again.