Reduce your team’s environmental footprint by lowering your office’s energy consumption. It will automatically conserve non-renewable fossil fuels and help to reduce IRRI’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.
As the world celebrates the 45th Earth Day on the 22nd of April, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) urges staff to make meaningful commitments towards environmental change and responsibility.
“Staff members can do a lot to help reduce energy costs by using light and air conditioning wisely as these consume the most energy in the workplace,” said Arman Mohammed, head of IRRI’s Physical Plant Services.
IRRI is taking significant steps to reduce the energy consumption of its various facilities. The Institute is currently installing solar-powered street lights in research areas and staff housing. It is also replacing fluorescent lights with more energy-efficient LED lights. Motion-activated sensors are also installed in common areas to avoid wasting electricity when there is no-one in the building.
Here are five easy tips that staff can do to reduce their carbon footprint at work and at home:
- Set the air conditioner thermostat to 23-24 degrees Celsius.
- Switch off lights, computer screens, and air conditioners when leaving the room.
- Choose reusable food and drink containers and utensils instead of disposable options.
- Close the doors and windows of air-conditioned rooms .
- Use double-sided printing to conserve paper.