While some zero waste actions have been put on hold until we are back in the office, the NOS Zero Waste (ZW) Team is still working to set the standard for sustainable zero waste operations at NOAA and beyond. For many of us, this means decreasing our waste while working from home. Now may be the perfect time to reflect on ways that you can safely cut back on single-use or disposable items you may be using more frequently since starting to telework.

For the next three weeks, NOS employees are encouraged to take part in adapting zero waste strategies while teleworking, and to share their zero waste goals and achievements. In early September, the NOS ZW Team will share results, including the program office with the highest percentage of participation, as well as some of the most creative and successful actions taken.

Not all goals have to be big lifestyle changes. Actions can range from requesting no single-use utensils when ordering takeout, to double-checking your municipal recycling guidelines (as many have recently changed), or something more ambitious, like starting to compost if it works with your current situation. Any of these actions would be a great start, and even the smallest actions can make a difference. 

For more information, please contact Amanda.Dwyer@noaa.gov.

Return to OR&R Weekly.