Why EOFY is the Perfect Time to Make Your Office More Sustainable

As the end of financial year approaches, it's the perfect time to not only wrap up your financial obligations but also reflect on your environmental impact. By incorporating eco-friendly practices into your end-of-year routines, you can minimise waste, reduce your carbon footprint, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Here are some practical eco tips to help you make the most of the EOFY while reducing waste and prioritising sustainability.

1. Responsible Disposal of E-Waste

Take the opportunity to declutter your office space and responsibly dispose of electronic waste (e-waste). Recycle old computers, printers, and other electronic devices through certified e-waste recycling programs. Alternatively, consider donating still-functional equipment to local charities or schools (see tip #3 for more).

2. Conscious Purchasing Decisions

Don't get too caught up with all the sales - be sure to review your office supply needs and opt for environmentally friendly options. Choose reusable or recycled products, energy-efficient equipment, eco office supplies, and earth-friendly cleaning products. Look for products with minimal packaging and prioritise suppliers that are local to reduce carbon footprint and aligned with your sustainability values.

Once you are happy they have met your eco-criteria, then purchase that item during EOFY sales to get your savings for the earth and your wallet!

See our guide to sustainable product swaps you can make in your office too!

3. Donate Unneeded Items

Before discarding office furniture, equipment, or other usable items, consider donating them to local charities or non-profit organisations. Many organisations are in need of office supplies, furniture, and technology. By donating, you extend the life cycle of these items and support community initiatives.

4. Sustainable Tax Preparation

When organising and preparing financial documents, adopt sustainable practices. Print only when necessary, and if printing is required, use recycled paper, print double-sided, and remember to reuse the misprints and single-sided prints in your Paper Saver Reusable Notebook! Consider using eco-friendly ink and toner cartridges as well.

5. Employee Engagement and Education

Engage employees in sustainability initiatives during the EOFY process. Educate them about the importance of eco-friendly practices and encourage their active participation. Organise workshops or training sessions on sustainability topics, such as waste reduction and energy conservation. Recognise and celebrate employees who actively contribute to eco-friendly efforts.

6. Claim Eligible Items Back on Tax

The bonus of an EOFY shopping spree is when you're able to claim your sustaimable purchases back as an expense at tax time, especially if you still work from home or have a home office. For tax year 2022-2023, only two methods remain to calculate your working from home expenses. Do take the time to check, or consult a registered tax professional, to determine which method is most relevant and best for you.

As you wrap up the financial year, remember that sustainability goes hand in hand with financial success. By implementing these eco-friendly tips, you can reduce waste, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable workplace, creating a positive impact on the environment and inspiring others to follow suit. Let's seize the opportunity to make our EOFY practices more sustainable and pave the way for a greener future.