Plastic. It seems to be the word on everyone’s lips at the moment – and for good reason, too. Given the devastation being caused to our oceans and the horrifying damage to ecosystems and wildlife as a result of our excessive plastic use, we need to take action – and fast. Today, businesses all over the globe are being encouraged to reduce the amount of plastic they produce in the workplace in order to save our environment. Below are just a few ways you can cut down on plastic use in your office.
Reduce plastic in office tea and coffee
Everyone loves a tea or coffee in the office; however, there are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of plastic used in the tea and coffee making process. Instead of having milk delivered in plastic bottles, try to source milk delivered in returnable and reusable glass bottles. Many tea bags have plastic in them, so try to find tea bag brands that use eco-friendly materials. Also, make sure that there are plenty of mugs and spoons available to be washed up and used again.
Installing a water cooler in the office means that members of staff can fill reusable bottles and drinking glasses with cool water, instead of bringing plastic bottles of water into work. Instead of opting for refillable large water vessels, plumb into the mains water supply.
Gift reusables to your employees
If you have the budget, gifting your team with one reusable item each can be a great way to kick-start your plastic-free office environment. Some examples include a coffee cup, a water bottle or a lunchbox. This will encourage your employees to reuse and cut out single plastic use. Plus, you can brand the gifts too!
Provide reusables in the kitchen and canteen areas
As a modern business, there really is no excuse for using disposable plastic cutlery, cups and plates in your kitchen or canteen. A single plastic fork used for a couple of minutes will remain in our environment for many, many years to come, polluting our oceans and killing wildlife. Instead, opt for reusable silverware that can be washed up and used again and again.
Encourage staff to bring homemade lunches
In an office, a lot of plastic waste comes from staff lunches. Providing your staff with facilities to store and reheat food and encouraging them to bring in their own lunch from home can make a huge difference. This will discourage staff from heading to the local shops during lunchtime to stock up on sandwiches, ready-made meals and pasta dishes, all of which are stored in single-use plastic packaging. Instead, encourage employees to bring in their own lunch in reusable tupperware.
Devon Contract Waste (DCW) is the premier plastic recycling company in Devon. We offer customers a bespoke plastic waste disposal service to help them make a difference and to provide businesses with the resources they require to implement effective plastic recycling solutions. For more information, visit our website.