Has the current pandemic made you a remote worker? The coronavirus outbreak has set a ‘new normal’ for the majority of people around the globe. A lot of workplaces have shut down as employers implemented a work from home policy for their employees.

Now that you are adjusting to working from home, you might be wondering how to have a more sustainable home office. Just by incorporating small, eco-friendly changes in your work area and in your daily workday, you will not only reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll inspire your family to practice eco-friendly living in other areas of the home.

From cutting back on unnecessary energy use to eliminating the commute, there are a lot of ways that working from home can help make you just as healthy, happy, and successful. Here are some ways on how to make your home office more eco-friendly:

Choose an area in your home with natural light

It’s quite easy to focus on the environmental benefits of working from home. However, you must also consider that the emotional and mental benefits are just as important, and this is why it’s essential for you to consider a space in which you can productively and comfortably work. And what better spot to set up your home office than a space flooded with natural light?

A study by Psychology Today found that exposure to natural light now only improves workplace performance, it also contributes to better sleep and vitality.

Decorate with plants

Looking at plants makes you feel calmer, doesn’t it? This is because plants in the workplace have been found to boost performance, productivity, and mood.

There are other benefits too! NASA discovered that indoor plants can take in hazardous chemicals from the air. In fact, plants can do more than absorb harmful pollutants in the air, they will do a fantastic job of jazzing up your home office space.

Some great indoor air-purifying plants are peace lilies, areca palms, spider plants, snake plants, and aloe vera. These plants are known to absorb carbon monoxide, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, and benzene. Bonus: they will also do a great job of cooling the room.

Choose eco-friendly furniture

Investing in eco-friendly furniture is another great way to help keep your office looking beautiful and green. Eco-friendly furniture is made in a way that has a minimum negative impact on the environment. Did you know that normal furniture has a ton of chemicals that may be harmful to your health? These chemicals might cause breathing problems, irritations, and hormonal changes.

Another option would be to purchase used furniture, or buying furniture made from eco-friendly materials. Here’s a good guide from Independent which lists eco-friendly materials.

Above all, be creative! Do not allow your present confined circumstances dwarf your happiness, tranquillity, and productivity. Take advantage of this special time to make your home office more eco-friendly, clear the clutter in your home, or get caught up in fun hobbies. Remember, your greatest power is in your perspective.

—————

Sources:

“Exposure to Natural Light Improves Workplace Performance,” Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-athletes-way/201306/exposure-natural-light-improves-workplace-performance

“Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement,” NASA, https://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19930073077

“The good wood guide: Eco-friendly options for furnishing your home,” Independent, https://www.independent.co.uk/environment/green-living/the-good-wood-guide-eco-friendly-options-for-furnishing-your-home-5333472.html