Office workers are demanding that their employers become
greener, with 90% wanting more IT recycling and the introduction of
environmentally friendly office processes, according to a
survey from Brother.
But employers are not keeping pace with the increasing ethical
awareness of their workforce, according to the survey of office
workers.
Recycling was identified as one of the biggest issues on which
businesses are failing to act, with 40% of businesses having no
recycling scheme in place. Workers said they felt guilty about the
paper they had to throw away.
Another cause for concern was the failure to recycle e-waste,
such as old printers and PCs. One in five businesses simply throw
equipment away rather than using recycling schemes.
William Sankey from the Ethical Company Organisation, which
produces an ethical directory for businesses called
The Good Office Guide, said,
"Businesses should not underestimate the impact their ethical and
unethical behaviour has on their workers.
"A business that gives serious consideration to the environment
and the health of workers throughout its supply chain is likely to
be rewarded with a happier and more dedicated workforce.
"Business partners, government organisations and consumers are
also keen to do businesses with ethical companies."
The Good Office Guide helps businesses make ethical choices by
highlighting those companies that meet certain guidelines, and also
highlighting those that do not.
Office technology manufacturer Brother has become the first
major manufacturer to have passed the Ethical Company Accreditation
scheme.