Home decor: 8 eco-friendly home office ideas

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6 Do NOT throw out batteries
How many dead batteries are rolling around in your home? We all know they contain corrosive metals and acids which poison the environment, but it's too easy just to throw them out. However, even if every Canadian throws 2 batteries out per year -- that's over 70 million batteries. "These metals need to be recaptured and recycled, but this stuff can also be reused," says Winter.

Take your non-rechargeable batteries to your municipal hazardous waste depot for safe disposal -- and give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done! For future electronic use, purchase rechargeable batteries.

7 Use only 100% recycled or FFC-certified paper
A lot of paper we use to scribble to-go lists and print Google maps is still coming from old-growth forests. Be a smart consumer and read the label before purchasing. 100% recycled is best, but FFC certification means the paper was made from trees grown in a sustainably managed forest.

8 Switch to fluorescent bulbs
Compact fluorescent lightbulbs can be used anywhere a traditional incandescent bulb is used, but use 2/3 less energy. That saves you about $30 per bulb! Do the math and replace the most-used lights in your home for incredible savings.

In the end, it's quite easy to green your home office -- we intuitively know what to do. "It's worth it to do a mental check and ask, 'Am I doing the right thing?'" says Winter. "Let your conscience guide you."

Green home office decor ideas

	Make recycling fun! Don't sacrifice style. Visit your nearest bookstore, flea market, craft or furniture store for chic, stylish trays to contain re-usable and recycling paper. Don't forget smaller containers for re-using paperclips, push-pins sticky flags, etc. Image: Desk organizer from Linens 'N Things, $29.99
	Hide away the uglies A small basket can contain or hide altogether an unsightly power bar. Image: Alkov basket from IKEA, $35.
	Lighten up Enjoy your new fluorescent bulbs with a fresh lampshade or light cover (recycling/donating the old one, of course!) Image: Blue Double Layer Table Lamp from Pier1, US $35.
	Contain your waste Set aside three small storage containers, one for ink cartridges, one for old batteries, and one for broken-down electronics. Keep them on top shelves or stored away in a closet space. When the boxes are full, just pick them up and head to your local STAPLES or community waste disposal location. Image: Artesia Baskets from Pier1, US $12 - $20.

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