If you’re reading this while you boil a full kettle for one cup of coffee, please get up. Return to the kettle, decant the water into a jug for later use, and boil only enough water for your single caffeine fix. Thank you very much. Boiling only enough water for the number
of drinks you’re making is one of the most common tips that’s offered to save energy. So
is changing your lightbulbs to energy-efficient ones. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use 80% less electricity than ordinary light bulbs and last up to eight times longer.
Other ways to save energy – and money – at your organisation include:

• Save all paper. Don’t throw it away after printing on only one side. Load up your
  printer with the ‘singles’ and print on the other side. Or use the blank side for notes,messages, etc. And only then throw it into the recycling box.
• Turn off the lights – and everything else that’s not being used. Switch off plugs at the wall at night.
• Make your own earth-friendly cleaning products. It’s not rocket science and really is
  kinder to the planet (and budget).
• Check what kind of paper you’re using for office stationery. Is it recycled? Ask your
  printer and investigate your options.
• Ban paper towels. Use cloths and towels.
• Encourage your clients, friends, family to choose green alternatives.
• Get loads of tips from the dozens of helpful green sites on the Internet. Find out about recycling projects that could earn money.
• Also visit: www.paperpickup.co.za; www.collectacan.co.za; www.petco.co.za and www.theglassrecyclingcompany.co.za. DMI has implemented all of the tips I’ve
  mentioned here – and we’re going to be doing more, as individuals and as a team, to reduce our carbon footprint. What about you?

Get rid of wasteful or harmful practices in your organisation and choose environmentally friendly alternatives to save money – and help save our planet. It’s sensible and savvy, writes DMI copywriter Marisol Gutierrez.