10 Sustainable Office Products Every Business Should Consider

In today's eco-conscious world, businesses increasingly want to reduce their environmental footprint. Incorporating sustainable practices not only benefits the planet but can also lead to significant cost savings and improve a company's reputation. In fact, studies confirm that a third of consumers are now purchasing from brands based on their social and environmental impact. Transitioning to sustainable office products is a straightforward yet effective strategy.

Sustainable Office Products

Here, we explore ten must-have sustainable office products for any business aiming to make an eco-friendly shift.

Recycled Paper and Notebooks

Recycled paper and notebooks are at the forefront of sustainable office supplies. Unlike traditional paper production, which is resource-intensive and leads to deforestation, recycled paper uses less water and energy and fewer trees, conserving forests and reducing landfill waste. It also generates less pollution during its production process.

When selecting these products, aim for those with high post-consumer waste content and check for environmental certifications such as FSC or the Blue Angel eco-label. Copier paper options such as Q-Connect A4 Recycled Paper and Navigator Universal A4 Paper boast sustainable attributes and hold FSC accreditation.

Refillable Pens and Pencils

The impact of disposable pens on the environment is more significant than it might appear, as billions of disposable pens end up in landfills yearly. On the other hand, sustainable stationery such as refillable pens and pencils can last for years, dramatically reducing plastic waste. Not only are they more sustainable, but they can also be more cost-effective in the long run.

Brands like Pilot, Stabilo and Pentel offer various styles of high-quality refillable pens and pencils. Investing in branded refillable pens can also serve as eco-friendly promotional items for businesses.

Eco-Friendly Office Technology and Energy-Efficient Lighting

Eco-friendly technology products help to combat "vampire energy" by cutting power to electronic devices that aren't in use but are still plugged in. Similarly, LED lighting consumes up to 75% less energy and lasts 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. Investing in these technologies not only reduces your carbon footprint but also lowers utility bills.

Brother and Q Connect have a wide range of printers and printer accessories with energy-saving features. We also stock a variety of LED light bulbs and fixtures for office settings.

Plant-Based Inks and Toners

Traditional inks and toners can contain harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are not eco-friendly. Plant-based alternatives, made from soy or other vegetable oils, are renewable, biodegradable, and emit fewer VOCs, making them a better choice for the office and the planet. They also offer the benefits of brighter colours and easier recycling processes.

Brands like Q-Connect and Lexmark offer eco-friendly ink and toner cartridges that are compatible with most major printer brands.

Sustainable Office Storage and Filing

Office storage made from recycled or responsibly sourced materials can significantly reduce your organisation's environmental impact. Sustainable office storage is designed to have a minimal effect on the ecosystem, often using recycled metals, reclaimed wood, or materials from rapidly renewable resources.

Look for filing and organising solutions that focus on durability, recyclability, and the use of eco-friendly materials.

Solar-Powered Calculators and Gadgets

Solar-powered office gadgets have come a long way, with options now including calculators, wireless keyboards, and even mouse units that can operate efficiently on solar power. These devices eliminate the need for disposable batteries or electrical power, reducing your carbon footprint and saving energy.

Casio and HP are leading brands offering a variety of solar-powered calculators that suit different professional needs. Logitech offers solar-powered wireless keyboards that can charge from any light source and hold a charge for up to three months in total darkness.

Reusable Water Bottles and Coffee Cups

Encourage your team to ditch single-use plastic bottles and disposable coffee cups in the office in favour of reusable alternatives. Providing employees with branded reusable bottles and cups can also serve as a constant reminder of your company's commitment to sustainability.

Brands like Contigo offer durable and stylish options that can be customised for corporate branding.

Biodegradable Kitchen Supplies

Moving away from plastic and Styrofoam plates, cups, and utensils to biodegradable or compostable options for office kitchens can significantly reduce waste. Products made from natural materials like bamboo, cornstarch, or sugarcane are compostable and environmentally friendly.

Brands such as Vegware and Tork offer a range of sustainable kitchen supplies, from napkins and coffee cups to utensils.

Sustainable Packaging Materials

Regarding sustainable mailing, options like biodegradable loose fill or packing peanuts, made from natural, non-toxic sources such as wheat and corn starch, dissolve in water and leave no toxic waste. Recycled cardboard and paper are also essential, reducing the need for new materials and the deforestation that comes with it. Even plantable packaging that grows into flowers or herbs when planted is becoming increasingly popular!

Jiffy and Mail Lite are leaders in sustainable packaging, offering everything from compostable mailers to recycled cardboard boxes and custom packaging solutions.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies

Switching to sustainable cleaning products helps create an eco-friendly environment by reducing the release of toxic chemicals into the ecosystem. These products avoid harsh substances and fragrances that contribute to indoor air pollution and health issues. Look for biodegradable products that are free from harsh chemicals and certified by eco-conscious organisations.

Brands like Dettol, Greenspeed, and Ecover offer a wide range of cleaning supplies, from surface cleaners to dish soaps, made with biodegradable ingredients and packaged in recycled materials.

Conclusion

Adopting sustainable office products supports environmental conservation and can enhance your brand's image and resonate with environmentally aware consumers. Not only that, but businesses can also foster a healthier, more eco-conscious workplace culture by investing in sustainable office products.

While the transition requires an initial investment and a shift in mindset, the long-term benefits for your business and the planet are immeasurable. By making conscious choices about the office products we use daily, businesses can lead the charge towards a more sustainable future.

---

Is sustainability becoming a paramount deciding factor when equipping your workplace with office supplies? We have an entire range of sustainable solutions for you to choose from. Open an account today or contact us at sales@codexltd.com if you require product recommendations or pricing!

RELATED ARTICLES:

How to be More Sustainable in Work in 2024

Eco-Friendly Print & Design: Reduce Your Environmental Footprint