As temperatures rise and daylight lingers, summer offers an ideal opportunity to rethink your office’s environmental impact. At Merlin Office Equipment, we’re passionate about helping businesses in Hull and around the UK embrace greener practices without sacrificing efficiency or comfort. By upgrading to sustainable furniture and adopting paperless workflows, you can reduce energy bills, minimise waste and create a healthier workplace.
Why summer is the perfect time for eco upgrades
Longer days mean extended operating hours, so any reduction in energy consumption has a bigger impact. Warmer weather also highlights heat generated by office machines and the importance of ergonomic, breathable furniture. Summer contract renewals and budget reviews present a natural window to invest in greener technologies and fittings, ensuring you reap both environmental and financial rewards for years to come.
Choose energy-efficient printers and copiers
Modern models of printers and photocopiers carry impressive energy-saving features, such as:
Auto power-down modes that switch devices to low-power standby during idle periods.
LED imaging technology, which uses significantly less electricity than traditional laser engines.
ENERGY STAR and Blue Angel certifications, guaranteeing compliance with stringent eco-standards.
By replacing old devices with these efficient alternatives, you can cut electricity costs by up to 30%.
Adopt refillable and cartridge-free ink systems
Disposable ink cartridges contribute to landfill waste and incur hidden costs. Instead, consider the following alternatives:
Continuous ink systems with high-capacity tanks, reducing frequency of refills and plastic waste.
Bulk toner stations that allow onsite top-ups, eliminating boxed cartridges altogether.
Printer leasing plans where maintenance and consumables are managed by your supplier, ensuring responsible recycling and offering predictable expenditure.
Embrace digital workflows and paperless practices
Transitioning to digital documents can noticeably shrink your paper footprint:
Cloud-based document management for real-time collaboration and secure access from any location.
Integrated scan-to-email functions on multifunction devices, reducing printing needs for internal memos.
E-signature solutions that accelerate approvals without a single sheet of paper.
Invest in sustainable furniture
A truly green office extends beyond equipment to the very chairs and desks your team uses each day. Merlin Office Equipment offers a range of eco-certified furniture designed for both sustainability and comfort:
Reclaimed wood desks sourced from certified suppliers, each piece carrying a unique character whilst reducing demand on virgin timber.
Ergonomic chairs upholstered in recycled fabrics, with adjustable features that promote good posture and reduce the risk of strain during long summer workdays.
Modular storage units made from low-VOC materials and finished in water-based coatings, ensuring clean indoor air quality even on hot days.
By selecting furniture built to last and manufactured under strict environmental standards, you decrease landfill waste and support healthier work environments.
Use recycled and certified consumables
When it comes to purchasing items for your wider workplace, selecting responsibly sourced materials makes a big difference:
PCR (post-consumer recycled) paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Eco-labelled toner and ink from suppliers committed to minimal chemical use and lower CO2 emissions.
Biodegradable packaging for all consumables and furniture components, reducing transit-related waste.
Fair Trade tea, coffee and kitchen supplies go a long way too.
Engage your team with green initiatives
A successful summer sustainability drive involves everyone:
Host a launch event for employees to showcase new equipment and sustainable furniture, explaining both environmental and ergonomic benefits.
Offer training sessions on energy-saving print settings, digital tools and correct ergonomic adjustment of chairs and desks.
Incentivise ideas for reducing resource use, with rewards for the best suggestions and a seasonal “Green Champion” award.
Get in touch with Merlin
Looking for eco-friendly office furniture and storage solutions? To find out more about how we can support your business, get in touch on 01482 301000 or use our contact form.
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