Here at RapidBuyr, we’re pretty big fans of the planet Earth. And why not? It provides food, gives us a place to rest our heads at night and offers the opportunity to attend Red Sox games (sorry, gotta represent!). So each time Earth Day rolls around, we like to put together a list of all the things we do at the office to show the Earth our appreciation.

Here are just a few ways we practice being GREEN!

1. Don’t Waste Paper

If you’re old school and like to write down your notes rather than type them up, this is for you. Do you have a notebook or legal pad you write your meeting notes on? How often do you find yourself starting a new page rather than writing on the back of the page you’re currently on? We get it! There’s just something so…satisfying about starting on a brand new page. But when you think about it, just how many pages are you wasting? We’d say that’s about half, if our math is right (sometimes questionable).

Let’s change that bad habit! Make sure you fill out the entire page—that means BOTH sides—before moving on to the next! You’ll be saving paper and reducing the number of notebooks that end up precariously stacked on the edge of your desk by the end of the year. Remember folks, less is more…

2. Turn Off the Lights!

How many times did your mother tell you when you were growing up to turn off the lights when you leave a room? Guess what—that logic should apply even in the office! Leaving for the day? Turn your office light off, please. Finished that two-hour long conference? Flip the switch! There’s no reason to keep the lights running when nobody is in the room to appreciate the fluorescents. One option is to install motion-censored lights that run on a timer! We’ve got one in our kitchen; the light switches off after the room has been empty for ten minutes. Motion-censored lights are easy to find and quick to install. Plus, it keeps you from having to remember yet another thing to do during your busy day. Not only will turning the lights off help save the planet, but it will keep your utility bill nice and low!

Michael Scott knows the importance of bringing his own mug! And yes, he did buy that mug for himself…

3. Bring Your Own Mug

Don’t deny it—we know you’re a caffeine junkie. And we fully support that! We also support reusing your own personal mug and cutting down on the amount on plastic and styrofoam that usually comes with that cup of joe. Before you leave your house in the morning, remember to grab your thermos as most places offer a discount if you bring your own mug! Refill your mug during the day at the office to cut down on the amount of new dishes that need to be done—that’s called saving water!

4. Set Up Recycling Bins

One of the simplest ways to keep our planet healthy is to follow your state recycling laws. This should apply in your home but also in the workplace. Make sure there are recycle bins in the kitchen (and other places if appropriate) that are clearly marked for Plastic, Paper, Cans, etc. Check out some of our recycle bins if you think your office is lacking!

5. Eco-Friendly Cleaning and Break room Products

You can keep your office clean while still protecting the Earth by using Eco-friendly cleaning products! That includes any sprays, wipes and soaps you may keep under the sink. Not sure what Eco-friendly products are out there? No problem! We’ve got a great post right here that talks all about the different kinds of Eco-friendly products you can stock up with!

Remember, just because Earth Day occurs once a year, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t practice these tips on an everyday basis! And it’s a two-fold process—saving the Earth often means saving your wallet some money! Who doesn’t love that?

Does your office practice any of these tips? What else do you do to protect the planet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!