Forestry Posted by Robert Westover, Office of Communication, U.S. Forest Service in Conservation

The U.S. Forest Service Green Team wants you to know that Green Office Week has arrived from across the Atlantic.

The first Green Office Week was launched in 2009 in Great Britain in response to research showing that United Kingdom employees felt they were being held back from being environmentally friendly at work because of a lack of empowerment and facilities.

Starting May 13 and ending May 17, Green Office Week encourages employees to do (and learn) a few personal conservation things we can do every day.

So what are some things you can do to be greener in the office?

Riding your bike to work is a great way to celebrate Green Office Week. (Photo: State Government of Illinois)

For starters, take steps to reduce energy consumption by ensuring that lights and electrical equipment are turned off when they are not in use. Bike to work, or check out alternative ways of getting there like public transportation or carpooling. Check out social media and learn from those in your office who know how to be greener and are putting their skills to good use.

There are free downloads online including the Green Offices for Dummies Guide and a presentation from an expert. Here’s a breakdown of each day for Green Office Week:

Energy Monday: Looks at practical ways to reduce energy consumption.

Looks at practical ways to reduce energy consumption. Transport Tuesday: Consider how you can reduce your environmental impact through better transportation options.

Consider how you can reduce your environmental impact through better transportation options. Don’t Waste Wednesday: Think about the three R’s: Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.

Think about the three R’s: Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Smart Purchasing Thursday: Discover and start using environmentally friendly products.

Discover and start using environmentally friendly products. Innovation Friday: Brainstorm and share ideas for developing more sustainable working practices.

And remember, spread the word and make small changes because sometimes the smallest actions can make a huge impact.