In several of our blogs we have discussed some of the biggest and best ways office spaces in Brisbane and the Gold Coast can reduce their environmental impact and become green friendly environments. These were by no means exhaustive lists of suggestions and there are many less obvious areas that we can all improve upon and that can have a significant impact on our overall environmental output. We will take you through a few tips that may not have struck you as important.
Dressing Casual
Queensland has a hot, tropical climate and offices can quickly become hot, stuffy and unbearable to work in. Air-con may be the obvious solution, but is also the costliest, both in terms of power bills and the environment. A casual dress policy might just be a practical, cheaper and more enjoyable solution. While they are still the corporate uniform, the suit and tie is losing relevance with every passing year. Looking presentable is still important in commercial office spaces in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, but making a few concessions will not necessarily detract from this professionalism. If your staff can work more comfortably (and productively) in light or sleeveless shirts, it makes sense to allow it. Casual dress results in comfort and dressing for the conditions, meaning that air-con use can be drastically reduced. There is also the added benefit of savings on dry cleaning bills and the impact these services have on the environment.
Bathroom
We’re not suggesting a bathroom ban, but there are some relatively easy ways to reduce your office water consumption. Flushing toilets use the largest volume of water throughout office spaces in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, so they are an obvious starting point. Placing a brick or two in the tank may save up to a litre per flush and, in a busy office, this can add up to great long-term savings. When replacing old toilets, look for new models with a high water efficiency rating and a half flush option.
Go Green (literally)
We all love plants and trees in outdoor settings, so why not include them in the office? Some greenery placed strategically throughout the office will have a myriad of positive effects. Plants soak up a range of pollutants that are rife in office environments, increase oxygen levels and improve the aesthetics of your working space. Offices may once have been dull, austere spaces, but times have changed. Adding some life and dynamism to the environment makes coming to work more enjoyable for staff and fosters creative thinking.
It’s easier than you might think being green. A little common-sense and a willingness to embrace change for the better may be all you need to transform your office space in Brisbane or the Gold Coast into a cleaner, greener and cheaper working environment.