How Coworking Spaces Tackle Waste?

Even before the pandemic, the rise of coworking spaces is already transforming the landscape of work. Gone were the days of enclosed cubicles and huge office doors. Workplaces like these are built for a more open and collaborative workspace where employees feel comfortable and safe to share their ideas with the team.?

Nowadays, people are getting tired of virtual communication. Work has been done online over the recent years, but as the situation is slowly going back to normal, these coworking spaces become a holy grail to aid Zoom fatigue and homesickness.

It has also posed tremendous advantages for businesses to lower the cost of traditional office maintenance. More importantly, it gave employees a hybrid work option that can amplify productivity given how these spaces were designed

Are coworking spaces an environmental solution?

Another silver lining from these spacious workplaces is their lesser environmental impact than old-school office setups.

Since coworking spaces were designed to be an open yet conducive space for work, its amenities and ground rules are built to be shared with people yet must be sustainable in the long haul.?

But what exactly do these modern workplaces have that reduces the carbon footprint on a significant level? Well, here are some ways how coworking spaces address the issue of waste and other environmental effects that greatly affect everyone today.?

1. Lessen waste by sharing space.

Perhaps, at the heart of every coworking space is the idea of sharing. Shared space means lesser waste.

Since coworking spaces usually work on schedule, there’s no other way to use a meeting or function room without a proper appointment. This is unlike most offices that take up large spaces and acquire multiple resources from furniture to projectors.?

Since manufacturing equipment are known to be high pollutants that destroy the ozone and perpetuate climate change.?

The practice of sharing when applied to most adult spaces can improve the way people approach environmental solutions. Whether you’re an employer, a realtor, or an employee—the cost efficiency of sharing is undeniably a win for everyone involved.

2.?Minimize paper use.

Modern technology has a big part in changing the dynamics of communication in the workplace. Not a long time ago, companies were still reliable in delivering a message or documenting notes using tons of paper. We can now digitize everything, from organizing company files to facilitating a meeting, even human resources memos. Companies can utilize a couple of messaging applications to communicate with employees instead of handing out modules or physical files.

But, not everyone can catch up with technology or prefer to modernize everything. Some still require paper documents, such as accounting and finance-related matters. So, opting for recycled paper and limiting printer use as much as possible can significantly help reduce office waste.

3. Stock on reusable pantry essentials.

Adding a pantry in coworking spaces can offer many advantages to the management, employees, and Mother Earth. If the company has available tableware and utensils, employees have the privilege to eat within the office premises instead of dining out. Compared to eating in the office, dining out could contribute to more landfill wastes given the amount of single-use utensils in fast-food chains.

Another thing, tissues. These are the go-to essentials for hygiene and everything. It’s a must-have. However, tissues also contribute to blocked sewages, and when practiced too many times, can cause a flood.?

4.?Properly mandated eco rules and initiatives.

Putting environmental endeavors as one of the core values in your workplace etiquette is a big step for every company. But you can start with the small things. Display funky and funny environmental slogans or posters on people’s favorite spots. This is so the message gets some traction even subconsciously.

Tackle correct waste segregation, recycling, and water conservation by sending company-wide infographics through email. For businesses that deal with electronic parts and repair, you can launch online discussions about?electronic recycling?which can help reduce some costs in production and save Mother Nature at the same time.?

5. Invest in renewable energy.

Talk about solar energy as the main source of your office electricity. Next to wind and hydroelectric sources, this decade saw the rise of the exponential demand in obtaining energy from these more environmental-friendly methods.

If you haven’t converted your coworking space into portable and sustainable energy yet, don’t worry. Plan these changes carefully, or better yet, look into the basics of a?decarbonization program.?

Slowly switch from using fossil fuels as the main source of energy to using “green” carbon-free renewable sources. Installing solar panels on roofs and relying on them for the supply of electricity is the most efficient way for your office space to switch to renewable energy.

?Bottom line: Coworking spaces as the eco hubs of the work landscape.

Coworking spaces have revolutionized hybrid work arrangements where old offices transformed into a more social space for employees, bringing a sense of community while working. These kinds of workplaces help in boosting employees’ morale and productivity.?

?It has also become a good choice in building future office buildings or spaces because it is practical, cost-saving, and less harmful to our only Mother Earth. Coworking spaces have evolved into open eco hubs of the landscape of work.