It may sound contradicting but did you know that implementing eco-friendly practices around the office can actually save you money? Just follow these seven simple steps to put more green into your bank account while simultaneously bettering the environment.

Banish the Phantom Power
Appliances & electronic equipment such as computers, printers, & fax machines that stay plugged in while not in use are still draining electricity, a phenomenon referred to as “phantom” or “vampire” power. To reduce energy waste & your energy bill, unplug equipment at the end of the day before you leave the office.

Set the Thermostat
To save on heating & cooling costs, set the office thermostat on a timer so you’re not using energy to heat or cool an empty office during the night. You may also want to consider keeping it a few degrees lower in the winter & a few degrees higher in the summer – the slight difference in temperature can mean a enormous savings on your utility bill.

Allow Telecommuting
If office work can be done remotely, allow employees to work from home every once in a while. This will cut down on carbon emissions & allow them to save money on gas. At the very least, encourage carpooling, bike riding (if possible), & mass transit as modes of transportation among employees.

Go Digital
Did you know that paper products fill up nearly 40% of American landfills? Or that Americans use more than fifty million tons of paper annually, which equates to the destruction of more than 850 million trees? Kicking the paper habit will not just save trees but can also mean significant savings for your office. Try implementing document scanning software which eliminates (or at least dramatically reduces) the need for paper records & can cut the cost of supplies & costly storage space.

Buy in Bulk
If possible, purchase office supplies in bulk; not just does this save you money upfront, it also reduces the amount of packaging used.

Don’t Chuck Old Electronics!
Old electronic equipment often contains chemicals & toxins that are harmful to the environment. Instead of contributing to the problem & filling up landfills, donate old computers, printers, cell phones, & other electronics. Contact your local government (city or county) about electronics recycling – most cities have programs to reduce electronic hazardous waste.