Green Office Checklist

☐ Unplug all electronic devices when not in use and/or use smart power strips

☐ Switch off lights when leaving a room

☐ Use natural lighting where possible

☐ Keep windows closed in heated/cooled buildings

☐ Send emails with an energy-saving checklist to staff before breaks and holidays

☐ Optimize thermostat settings

☐ Use energy-saving appliances, electronics, and lighting

☐ Have occupancy sensors installed for lights

☐ Program occupancy sensors to adjust HVAC

☐ Ensure HVAC schedule suits building use

☐ Recycle electronics, toner, printer cartridges, and/or rechargeable batteries

☐ Hang recycling posters in common areas

☐ Reuse interdepartmental mail envelopes

☐ Reuse or recycle packaging materials

☐ Have designated collection spots for reusable and shareable supplies

☐ Place recycling bins next to trash bins in common areas

☐ Minimize single-use plastics

☐ Reduce paper use

☐ Print double-sided by default

☐ Use post-consumer recycled paper

☐ Avoid color printing

☐ Send information electronically

☐ Turn on sleep settings for all devices

☐ Department encourages carpooling

☐ Meet virtually when possible

☐ Building has access to bike racks

☐ Use the University Shuttle service

☐ Encourage use of reusable water bottles

☐ Kitchen has communal kitchen appliances

☐ Purchase communal food (e.g., coffee)

☐ Kitchen has zero tolerance for Styrofoam

☐ Ask that catering services minimize waste

☐ Order food in bulk packaging

☐ Use reusable food containers

☐ Department avoids coffee pods

☐ Kitchen has reusable utensils/mugs/cups readily available

☐ Department distributes leftover food

☐ Purchase products with recycled content or are otherwise environmentally friendly

☐ Buy used office furniture and supplies

☐ Purchase durable and reusable office supplies

☐ Prioritize purchasing from suppliers committed to sustainability

☐ Purchase products that minimize single-use plastic packaging

☐ Buy materials in bulk and consolidate smaller orders

☐ Have applicable official sustainability signage

☐ Department has at least one Green Rep

☐ Share the Green Office Guide with departmental colleagues

☐ Department has a sustainability suggestion box

☐ Have an inter-office resource exchange program