University of Maryland Green Office Program at the EPSL

The Green Office Program is a voluntary, self-guided initiative that promotes best environmental practices at the University of Maryland. By conserving energy, recycling, and purchasing green office supplies, among other environmentally conscious practices, we make our offices more sustainable and help to curb UM's carbon footprint. EPSL has pledged to do the following actions to green the EPSL library, to strengthen the University of Maryland's position as a national leader in sustainability and to support the University's Climate Action Plan and Strategic Plan.

Take the Pledge

• Select a GO Representative for the office and sign the GO Participation Pledge
• Complete the GO Pre-Audit
• Include sustainability topics as a regular agenda item at staff meetings
• Reward and recognize participation in sustainability initiatives including the GO Program

Energy

• Turn off computer monitors when not in use and when not working remotely, shut down computers at the end of the day
• Use energy efficiency settings on our computers, monitors, printers and copy machines
• Turn lights off when leaving an unoccupied room and use task lighting in place of overhead lights
• Use centralized, shared appliances and equipment such as printers, scanners, copiers and refrigerators
• Complete an energy "power down" before holidays and breaks

Kitchen and Lunch room

• Use reusable cups and mugs
• Use reusable silverware and dishes
• Report leaks and running taps to Facilities Management

Transportation

• Take the shuttle, carpool, bike or walk to on campus meetings

Meetings and Events

• Use reusable or recyclable containers, cups, and utensils at office meetings and events
• Reduce waste by making meetings paper-free
• Decrease the amount of giveaways/freebies at special events

Waste and Recycling Category

• Establish an office supply sharing and re-use area for file folders, binders, pens, tape and more
• Use inter-departmental envelopes for on campus mailings
• Practice single-stream recycling and include recycling instructions near all recycling bins
• Print and copy on both sides of paper and set printer/copiers for automatic double-sided printing whenever possible
• Collect single-sided copier and printer paper for reuse
• Recycle batteries using Facilities Management brown battery collection system
• Arrange for Terrapin Trader to pick up surplus office furniture, electronics and equipment
• Recycle toner and ink cartridge from printers and copy machines
• Participate in "Can the Can"