The office of today is likely to have some flaws. Faulty computers, a complicated seating plan and a lack of space are all issues that could contribute to an inefficient workplace. One of the biggest problems in any workplace is a lack of eco-friendliness. Equipment that uses too much energy and appliances left running 24/7 can lead to a hefty electricity bill, among other things.
According to stats from the US’s Energy Information Administration, 25% of energy costs for a typical office are spent on heating. In the UAE, a similar amount would go on paying for air conditioning systems, which are necessary. Nevertheless, there are ways in which technology can actually make your office greener, rather than act as a barrier to eco-friendliness.
Switching Off
It might seem like a simple thing to do, but turning off all the computers, lights and other equipment in the office between working days will save plenty of energy and money. For lighting systems, a master switch is a simple thing to install, but it saves time and will save you or one of your colleagues from going between switches.
Smart switching can help you to determine how much lighting you need, so that you don’t waste a single kilowatt of power. It can be done using your WiFi connection and via an app or, if you have a little spare money, Alexa Smart Home. As you might expect, it can be worked using just your voice, all with just one plug socket.
Paperless Office
The amount of paper used in any workplace may surprise you. From invoices and notes to white papers and contracts, stacking them up over the course of a week will take up a huge amount of space, whilst also seeing spending on printer ink and paper go through the roof.
According to research by Gradwell, the paper equivalent of the spreadsheets created by an IT worker would fill a plane in just three days. To cut down on paper usage and save storage space, relying more on technological solutions such as cloud storage would work wonders.
Cloud storage is able to store all of your electronic files in a secure, remote space, reducing the need for your business to rely on expensive file servers and external hard drives. The added bonus of being able to access files via the cloud from home can enable you and your colleagues to work remotely.
By allowing employees to work away from the office, you can operate with a smaller office, cutting down on energy, water and admin costs in the process. To do this, you will also need time management, project management and email software to enable constant communication between the office and remote employees.
Green Security
Security cameras do use a fair amount of electricity. However, it is possible to get one that provides the same amount of safety without using much from the mains supply. This wireless security camera can work in any small office space and can be charged via a micro USB lead. There are similar products that run using nothing but solar power.
Speaking of security, there are also solar powered roller shutters you could buy for your workplace. These work just as well as other electronic shutter systems, all without relying on a plug socket.
Finally, look at the energy ratings of your office’s computers. If it is possible to upgrade, do it. If your office is reliant on desktops, moving over to laptops will not affect your employees’ ability to do their jobs, all while using up to 80% less energy. Make sure that they are not kept charging though – only do so when needed.