Ideas for a Green Home Office

We can all relate to the need to go green, but how exactly are we supposed to do that and still stay on top of our work? There are some simple things that even us home workers can do to go green. As a home workers, you have already made one significant green change. By not driving to work you are saving more than just the environment, you are also saving your pocket book. With fuel prices at nearly $4.00 a gallon who can afford to drive to work anyway.

Another small change is to switch to compact florescent light bulbs. They save energy (which saves you money), last longer (which saves you money), and are more friendly on the environment. Not to mention they are better for your eyes than standard and by far better than florescent lighting. Though nothing beats sunlight and it is even better when you can turn off the lights completely and use good old mother nature to light your worktable. (Even more savings as sunlight is free!)

One last simple green step we can all take is to turn down the thermostat. Even though we are home, doesn’t mean we need to have the house temp at 70 or above. Try setting your thermostat at 68 during the day and dropping it to 65 at night. You’ll see the savings in your bill and it is likely after the first two days you’ll forget you even made the change. The reason for the drop in temp at night is simple. We humans actually sleep better in a cooler environment. So by dropping the heat slightly you are doing your body a favor and will most likely wake more refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead.

There are other changes you can implement such as: solar panels, wind generators (especially here in the northwest), rain water collection systems, hybrid cars, the 100 mile diet…Just make sure that whatever you do you do for the right reasons. It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to switch to a hybrid car when you only drive your vehicle once a week and its to the grocery store and back. It does make sense to keep your vehicle in top shape with regular maintenance. Do what works for you and as always what is best for your family.

I hope everyone had a great Earth Day and even if you don’t implement new changes, know that the simple change of working at home has made an impact.

K