• Turn off monitors when away from the computer more than 5 minutes.
• Set computer to "sleep" mode; screen savers do not save energy.
• Avoid battery operated mice and keyboards.
• Think twice before printing, ask yourself is it really necessary?
• Always copy and print double-sided.
• Design document/ shrink images to minimize paper consumption (e.g. set default margins to 1" on all sides (or less!).
• Use High Yield or recycled-content paper in the office (you can buy this paper from the NSAC Print Centre).
• Save one-sided leftovers for scrap, or to print drafts on.
• Conserve energy by turning off the copier/printer or have the machine’s stand-by mode set to the minimum time (Xerox technician can help).
• Send documents and invitations electronically.
• Edit, spell, and grammar check on screen.
• Return empty printer cartridges through Xerox.
• Recycle paper when no longer needed.
• Resist the urge to buy a personal printer for my office. If absolutely required, I will source an existing, underused one on campus.
• Divert large volume printing or copying of documents to the Print Centre as they use much more sustainable inks, supplies and their machines are the most energy-conscious available.

Water

• Don't leave the water running freely during everyday activities.
• Rinse dishes in a separate sink or all at once at the end.
• Take shorter showers.
• Purchase equipment and appliances that use less water.
• Avoid purchasing bottled water.
• Use non-toxic cleaning products to protect water quality.
• Don't pour unused household chemicals, pharmaceuticals, fats, oil, grease, paints, solvents and vehicle fluids down sinks, toilets or storm drains.

Waste

• Reuse and recycle paper, cardboard, beverage containers, plastics, tin and glass containers, electronics and furniture. Compost whenever possible, and dispose of hazardous waste in appropriate manner.
• No longer purchase items containing Styrofoam packaging.
• Make a conscious effort to circulate and file information electronically.
• Be selective in printing large document.
• Reuse envelopes, folders, and the back sides of pages.
• Take reusable bags to the grocery store.
• Use rechargeable batteries.
• Choose to not purchase items with excess packaging.
• Choose to repair items rather than discarding them.
• Use reusable cutlery and bring your own containers.
• Bring your own mug to campus.
• Request no receipts at stores/ restaurants.
• Reduce unwanted junk mail by removing your mailing address by phone or email.

Energy and Clean Air

• Always turn off lights when not in use.
• Unplug electronics when not in use to reduce phantom energy consumption.
• Unplug laptop and phone chargers when not in use.
• Turn down the heat when not around.
• Plant a tree.
• Turn down heat before leaving the house or office.
• Close storm windows (especially in preparation for the winter months).
• Close curtains and blinds each night to keep warm air in and cold air out.
• Turn off computers and monitors when not in use, and turn off power bars.
• Use compact fluorescent bulbs or LEDs - they are more energy efficient, cheaper in the long run and last longer.
• Wash clothes in the washing machine in cold water.
• Take the stairs instead of an elevator.
• Support renewable energy initiatives.

Meetings

• Hold virtual meetings with conference calls.
• Send agenda by email (not hard copy).
• Remind attendees to bring their own mug/water bottle.
• Don't offer bottled beverages, use jugs filled with tap water or juice.
• Don't offer single serve condiments, use bulk instead.
• Remove garbage cans from meeting rooms entirely or have compost, recyclable, paper and waste bins.
• Facilitate carpooling or shuttle.
• Use reusable nametags, dishes, cups, etc.
• Minimize or avoid printed handouts.
• Have recycling bins available for attendees.

Publications

• Publish documents online.
• Design to minimize paper use.
• Use recycled-content paper.
• Avoid overruns; minimize number you distribute.
• Target your mailing list.

Purchasing

• Buy local products as often as possible to reduce transportation needs. Avoid buying "stuff" in the first place.
• Buy recycled-content products (both pre- and post-consumer).
• Choose products with minimal packaging.
• Use energy efficient light bulbs (compact fluorescents).
• Buy energy efficient equipment – purchase only Energy Star certified products if you can.
• Choose reused equipment and furniture.
• Seek non-toxic alternatives.
• Look for reusable or refillable products.
• Purchase locally-manufactured products, or those from a shorter distance (Try within the Maritimes).
• Look for these logos - Energy Star, Ecologo, Green Seal, Der Blaue Engel, FSC, Greenguard, Fair Trade- when choosing products.

Transportation

• Walk , bike or public transport to school at least twice a week as opposed to using your own vehicle.
• Avoid unnecessary short car trips as much as possible.
• Avoid idling your vehicle.

Food and Catering

• Pack lunch in reusable containers.
• Keep plate, utensils, & cloth napkins at work.
• Use reusable mug.
• Use a water filter instead of bottled water (or just drink tap water!).
• Avoid single-use, disposable packets.
• Prepare proportionate meals to reduce food waste.
• Buy certified fair trade products.
• Buy organic foods.
• Request locally-sourced foods for meetings and events.
• Choose reusable/china and fair trade options through Chartwell's catering service.
• Notify food services groups of your environmental goals and for help making decisions about your event.

Education

• Spend 10 minutes every day learning about environment and sustainability issues.
• Donate to an environment and sustainability cause once a month (Your time is also a great resource).
• Contribute to local newspapers once every two months highlighting initiatives or issues. Become a fan of NSAC’s Facebook page at facebook.com/nsacu or join other similarly ‘green’ sites to keep up-to-date on food, water and environmental issues.

Operations

• Refrain from using mechanical electronics when human powered alternatives are viable alternative.
• Refrain from using push-button automated door opening mechanisms if not needed.