Environmental conservation is everybody’s duty. This is why offices develop creative ways to go green and preserve the environment. And while print services are essential because they ensure a smooth flow of information from one department to another, many businesses remain concerned about the potential paper, ink, and plastic waste that excessive and irresponsible printing practices can cause.
Fortunately, the office printer industry is actively working to assist offices in building a greener workplace.
Why are Offices Looking to Go Green?
But “going green” can do more than meet government and employee demands. It can also help a business save money. One of the ways it does this is by optimizing materials usage to minimize waste production. Other strategies for improving costs while going green include switching off electronic devices when not in use, implementing power-saving modes, and operating more energy-efficient hardware.
In addition to saving money, many companies are implementing more environmentally friendly options to meet customer expectations. For example, many consumers are concerned about the growing number of reports on global news of wildfires, ozone issues, heat waves, and fluctuating ocean temperatures. And those individuals are actively seeking to do business with organizations that are increasing their efforts to become better stewards of the environment.
Consumption is a Crucial Part of Going Green
A lot of “going green” in the office can be managed by monitoring consumption. Managed print service partners have the software, systems, and services available to apply this logic to the realm of office printing. They make it easy to keep track of the amount of paper, ink, and energy being expended daily and even hourly by printers throughout the business – whether in the main office or at remote locations.
This level of tracking does more than predict the cost of office printing; it allows each business partner to make better decisions about the materials they order. It also provides actionable data to help educate employees and direct printer use behavior.
Another great way to go green is to tackle the issue of energy consumption. A straightforward way to reduce power use at the printer is to turn the machines off when offices are closed. But additional opportunities are available on newer printers beyond shutting down the devices. These power-saving options include low power idle modes and year-over-year improvements in general energy efficiency. A reputable managed print services, printer leasing, or printer service provider can help their business partners understand the best energy-saving options that fit each office’s printing needs.
Evaluate Materials and Usage for Eco-Friendliness
The use of materials is a considerable contribution to creating greener office policies. Fortunately, there are materials and processes that can be utilized to avoid waste and allow businesses to operate in a more environmentally-friendly manner. When it comes to office printing, the right service partner can help:
- Manage materials usage and ordering
- Advice on the best ink and toner for maximum paper coverage and minimal waste
- Provide guidance on reliable recycled papers products
- Include programs for paper, ink cartridge, and toner cartridge recycling
Becoming more eco-friendly may seem like a daunting task. But, when it comes to office printing, meeting consumer and employee demands isn’t as out of reach as it may seem. The right printing partner can help any business discover a wide range of ways to pivot to greener printing strategies while saving money and improving efficiencies.