Efficiency and productivity are two important goals at work — the key is to figure out the best, most efficient way of doing things to get the most out of your efforts. An orderly workplace makes it easier to perform well and helps you focus. Achieving an effective work routine is ideal in making the most out of your work hours, and you can be environment-conscious with it at the same time. Here are a few tips to help you develop a green work routine and help you foster an efficient working environment:

Keep communications electronic. Reduce paper usage by sending messages and memos through email. Likewise, you can use an electronic day planner to keep your schedule, and jot down notes and reminders using an electronic version of Post-its or any other similar ‘sticky note’ software. There are a number of programs and applications you can use to make your work easier, not just for your computer, but for your mobile phone and other handy platforms. 

Be mindful of paper. Make double-sided copies as much as possible. Remember to use the blank side of printed documents. Make scratch papers or notepads out of the blank side of excess copies of documents. Choose recycled paper whenever possible. 

Choose reusable. Use reusable containers and bags, tumblers, mugs, cups, folders, binders, envelopes, and other office supplies instead of disposable ones. This reduces discarded material, and it’s more practical than having to buy new disposable items each time. 

Aim to conserve resources. Rule of thumb is: If you don’t have to use it, then don’t. As with the aforementioned tips, always try to choose the less wasteful option. Turn off appliances and devices at your workstation when not in use, and only use them when you have to. Help save energy in the office and help cut back on electric costs. 

These tips are actually pretty basic, making them easy to remember, and even easier to execute once you get the hang of it. But this basic list makes a good foundation for these green work practices. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that bring the biggest results — being conscious of your actions give your choices more weight, and starting an environment-friendly work routine not only contributes to the planet’s well-being, but to yours as well. An efficient, orderly routine promotes a healthy outlook toward work, helps to greatly reduce stress, and encourages much productivity.

Author Bio: George is a writer who occasionally does work for Plastic Place, an online vendor of trash bags and garbage bags. Efficiency and productivity are his top priorities, but often gets sidetracked by Facebook and 9gag.