Get Green Office Gadgets

We all like to think we're doing good things for the planet, but how many people can say their office is green? Sure, your company may be recycling, and perhaps they're trying to reduce energy use by turning computers off at night, but many companies still use dated energy-sucking computer systems and single-use products. However, switching to eco-friendly systems and supplies is simple, and it can be cost-effective.

From big-ticket items like computers to the small stuff like staplers, there are all sorts of sustainable gadgets that can help you and your company go green.

Green Computers
Computer manufacturers from Dell (pictured) to Apple are developing energy-efficient models that can help you reduce the amount of energy each employee uses. If your office is looking to upgrade, why not suggest such a computer? And while you're at it, you may want to mention that laptops consume less than half the energy of a standard PC.

Upgrade to an LED Flatscreen
If you're still working with an old, boxy monitor, it may be time to trade it in. Today's LED flatscreen monitors use less than half the energy of their ancestors. With savings on energy, a flatscreen will soon pay for itself.

Performance-Enhancing Laptop Stands
Laptop stands are a great idea for offices for two reasons: They ease strain on the user's hands and neck, and better ventilation keeps your computer cooler and running at its most efficient. There are lots of DIY options out there, but if you're looking for something a little more professional looking, there are tons of options out there.

Energy-Efficient Routers, Network Systems
Several hardware companies, including D-Link, Netgear and NEC, are producing energy-efficient routers and network hardware. D-Link Green products reduce power use for shorter Ethernet cables, reducing overall power use by 62 percent for computers connected to a 20-meter (or less) cable.

Stop Using Staples
Isn't it a pain when staples get jammed in the stapler? And don't you hate remove staples just so you can recycle pages? Then stop using staples! There are tons of stapleless staplers on the market today. Whether they punch a hole through the pages or fold a fancy pattern to keep your document together, they're a heck of a lot greener than the old option. And for those larger documents, reusable paperclips are a simple solution.

Switch to Soy Inks
Want to reduce the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in your office air? Want to get brighter colors on printed pages? Want to be as green as you can be? Then start using soy toner in your printer. A standard oil-based toner cartridge requires about 2 liters of oil, and U.S. businesses go through about 100 million cartridges each year. Switching to a soy product such as SoyPrint can help your company improve indoor air quality and reduce reliance on petroleum products.

Sustainable Furniture
If your company is replacing furniture or flooring, suggest eco-friendly options to reduce VOCs and promote sustainability. Herman Miller's office chairs, for example, are ergonomic wonders, and they company has fully embraced cradle-to-crade design, which allows their products to be repurposed when companies upgrade. Most eco-friendly options cost a bit more, but many also last longer than their synthetic counterparts. If your boss needs a nudge to buy into the concept, mention the EPA guide to indoor air quality says poor indoor air quality can effect the health and productivity of staff—which effects your company's bottom line.