The American Corner – Pécs initiates projects in April 2009 to address environmental issues and to commemorate Arbor Day and Earth Day.
The Green Office Project
The AC with the help of a local, professional NGO, the Green Circle of Pécs (Pécsi Zöld Kör), makes efforts to become an environment friendly office. With small but effective steps we can make huge differences and create a healthier and friendlier atmosphere in the workplace. Our partner, the Green Circle of Pécs, suggested changes that make the office and the library area eco-friendly. Workplaces, sensitive to the green issue, may benefit from the following suggestions, or may ask for advice from the NGO themselves.
The “paper issue”
- Use recycled paper for correspondence. It may cost a bit more than “regular” ones but keep in mind: the more people use it the sooner it becomes cheaper. The difference of production cost is huge: manufacturers of recycled paper use 90% less water and 50% less energy.
- Double-sided printing is highly recommended.
- Use e-mail for correspondence and advertising.
The waste bin
- Put your waste in different bins for recycling purposes. Do not mush together paper because they will not be reusable, even for recycling!
Heating
- Make sure big objects (armchairs, desks) do not block the heat coming out of the radiator.
- Make sure the windows shut properly.
Water
- Do not overfill the kettle when making tea or coffee.
- In the restroom use the half flush facility.
- Plastic bottles are avoidable and even water in them is luxurious (not to mention the sugar-rich soda, which is extremely unhealthy). Tap water is good for you and free. Put glass pitchers with fresh tap water on the table along with glass mugs. Serve this for your guests and for yourself on hot summer workdays! You can make refreshing lemonade with lemon rings, berries, and mint leaves.
Electricity
- Your equipment uses electricity even in standby mode. Log your PC, television and other electric equipment onto a power strip with a switch. Do not forget to turn it off when you leave your home or office. Adjust the automatic turn-off function on your monitor.
Ambiance
- Flowers make a huge change, plants can absorb indoor pollution. Plant as many as you can. And don’t forget to water them after being planted!
- Colorful cushions, rugs, pictures create a welcoming impression especially in the community areas. Make your visitors feel welcomed when they enter your office!
How big is your ecological footprint? Click here to calculate!
