Having a lifestyle that tends to zero waste at home is one thing but in the office, it may seem more complicated.   As I begin this morning my new work 100% dedicated to Effect PH and I have to make a functional office work, I asked myself the question about what I needed and the options zero waste and minimalist.

1- Paper

In the United States, an office worker uses an average of 10,000 sheets of paper a year. To counter this overuse, use a chalkboard and chalks or an erasable whiteboard for quick note-taking. Or, if you have a tablet or cell phone install the Google Keep app that is also available on computer. Also on the computer, there is Sticky note application that can replace the thousands of Post-It cluttering some offices. If you really need paper, consider reusing paper that is no longer used or paper made from recycled materials. Of course, have a bin to deposit the papers that can be reused and one for the paper to recycle.

2- Pencils and pens

I use few pens but it remains that I need it from time to time! For now, I will use pens and markers that I already have at home! These are the pens that my kids needed at school but do not serve anymore! Whether for highlighters, ballpoint pens or felt pens, I have a few to finish. It must be said that when my children were in elementary school, they needed a lot of equipment that no longer serves them. When they're finished, I'll drop them off at Big Office in the Terracycle box. My next pencils will be reloadable feathers that can be filled again and again. For the highlighters, the idea of using colored pencils made of recycled newspaper I like a lot!

3- Accessories

Before buying an accessory, evaluate if it will really serve. Rather than using a rule, I have several options! If it's to measure, I already have a gallon to measure. If it's to make a straight line, a notebook cover can do the job. Sincerely, I do not need a rule but if I had to have one, I would choose a stainless steel. To staple leaves together, I fold the left edges simply. And if the document is bigger, which is very rare, I use a recovered string! For those who really want a stapler, there is the option of the stapleless stapler that is useful for up to 5 sheets. Stainless steel paperclips can also do a great job. For tape, my first option is to find an alternative.

4- Computers and others

I keep my computers very long. Mine is starting to need maintenance! Rather than opt for a new one, I will have the defective parts changed only. Remember to permanently delete emails that are no longer useful. It does not seem, but it consumes a lot of energy useless emails. For the printer, if you really need it, go for a Mega tank. No need to change the ink cartridges. Each color has its reel so only need to change the color that is finished. In addition, the ink is good for 2 years without drying. It's a great buy for an office that prints from medium to lots! If you print very little, there are stores where you can have your documents printed directly from your computer or cell. And think about printing on both sides of the sheet. A good external hard drive to back up your documents can be a good investment. The "cloud" is great but it is not without ecological consequence. And do not forget to close completely what is not useful.

5- Others

In your office, do not have a garbage bin. You will really become aware of what you throw in the trash if you have to get up every time to go to the garbage. Awareness is a great way to help reduce our waste. If you have a coffee pod and bottled water, opt instead for a coffee maker where you can put your coffee in bulk and a water fountain that can fill the water bottles. If you eat at the office, consider using washable and reusable dishes. Compostable crockery is a better alternative to disposable but has to be avoided as much as possible. Finally, opt for a minimalist environment, so you will be more focused at work.