Since next week is Admin Week, we’re getting a bit of a jump start on Earth Day!

How’s your workplace’s carbon footprint? Is it ninja-like: light and barely detectable? Or, are you getting into Sasquatch territory?

If it’s time for an environmental intervention, we can help. We’ve identified eight painless ways you and your office mates can be better citizens of planet earth.

Ditch the K-Cups

The jig is up. Yes, K-Cups are convenient, but the waste they generate is slowly taking over the planet. Consider using this custom recycling service if your office is hooked. But a better option is to go back to good ol’ Mr. Coffee and his communal carafe.

Invest in Real Plates, Cups, and Utensils

Switch to actual dinnerware and you’ll eliminate waste and, over time, save money. Plus, doesn’t a microwaved burrito just taste better when you eat it off of a real plate?

Learn How to Recycle … Everything

You’ve placed the blue and green bins in visible, high-traffic areas. But do you know what to do with batteries? What about that old fire extinguisher. This article from Real Simple provides a super thorough guide on how to properly recycle everything in your office.

Power Down/Turn Off

Does everyone in your office turn off their computers, monitors, and power strips before leaving for the day? What about flicking off the lights in unused conference rooms? If folks are starting to get a little lax in this department, now is the perfect time to remind everyone to power down with an Earth Day-themed email.

Make 2-Sided Printing the Default

Work with the IT department to make 2-sided, black and white printing the default on all printers. Nothing’s more disheartening than watching the printer spit out a 10-page, full color, single-sided document for one meeting…only to see it in the recycling bin an hour later.

Go Green–literally

Potted plants are a natural, affordable way to filter indoor air. And they’re pretty. Consult this article from the Mother Nature Network to learn about 15 plants that can help improve air quality.

Simpler Cleaning Products

Would your facilities department be open to switching to simpler cleaning products? For example, a vinegar and water solution is a great alternative to chemical laden kitchen sprays.

Encourage Eco-Friendly Commuting

Talk to the HR department about incentivizing employees to use public transportation by subsidizing monthly transit passes. And, if your building doesn’t already have a bike rack, request that they install one so cyclists can bike to work.

And don’t stop there! You can find dozens of other ways to protect the planet at Earthday.org. So go green – and bring your office mates with you!

Does your office celebrate Earth Day? What will you do with your coworkers to help protect the earth?