So You Want to Go Green at Your Practice? Here's How!
May 3, 2021
Going green at the practice level doesn’t have to be difficult, costly, or dramatic. In fact, you can significantly decrease your carbon footprint just by implementing a few small changes.
If you're not sure where to start, try utilizing these simple suggestions:
1. Get into the habit of recycling
Whenever you get the chance, choose to recycle. Paper and plastic are probably the most commonly recycled materials but you can also recycle cardboard, newspaper, batteries, lightbulbs, and ink cartridges. Check in with your local waste hauling company to learn more about which items are accepted and which aren’t.
2. Ditch paper and go digital
Going paperless is one of the best things you’ll ever do. If you’ve already gone paperless, well done! If you haven’t yet, think about it. Going paperless will reduce your carbon footprint, protect your patient’s medical records from being physically lost or damaged, make access to files instantaneous, and allow for easy updates to medical records.
3. Upgrade to LED lighting
LED light bulbs are an energy-efficient and cost-effective option when compared to incandescent light bulbs. LED lights last longer than their incandescent counterparts, plus they use less energy which, in turn, leads to fewer emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2). Opting for LED lights will make you feel great and leave your practice looking even better.
4. Landscape to help the environment
This one might sound a bit silly at first but bear with us. Landscaping the outside of your practice can benefit you both environmentally and aesthetically. Planting trees and other plants reduces the amount of CO2 getting released into the atmosphere and makes your practice more appealing and attractive for clients.
Want more tips? Check out this AVMA article about integrating eco-friendly features into your practice.
