Is Your Office “Green” Yet?

A lot of consumers want to “go green” but they aren’t sure where to begin. When I made my transformation to a healthier, green lifestyle, I didn’t do it overnight. I started with one product at a time, trying new things and experimenting with new products until virtually everything I use is all-natural or organic. One way to begin the switch to “green” is by transitioning one area of your life, for example, your kitchen, your yard or maybe your office. If you want a greener officer, here are some thoughtful ways to incorporate healthier living into your daily work routine:

• Optimize your computer to maximize its energy-saving features. Try using stand-by mode or allowing your monitor to shut down if it hasn’t been used for 10 minutes or more.

• Unplug peripherals like scanners and printers when not in use and shut down your computer at the end of the day.

• Use less paper by only printing items that must be printed.

• Use the back side of old, noncritical documents for scrap paper or notes.

• Store documents electronically instead of printing them out. Store your documents online by creating meaningful, named folders in your My Documents folder: (2009 Meeting Notes, ABC Company marketing notes, Incorporation Documents, 2008 tax return, etc.).

• Utilize your printer’s double-sided printing feature.

• If you commute, try carpooling, bicycling or using mass transit.

• Pack a healthy lunch and snacks in environmentally-friendly containers. You’ll save time and money while helping to save the planet.

• Instead of drinking bottled water, bring your own filtered water from home in a recyclable, chemical-free water bottle.

Thanks to the GOGREEN blog for some of these great suggestions, and please pass them onto your co-workers, friends and family. Together we can make a difference!

Cypriana ~ the natural home store

Cypriana Brings a “Green” Twist to Downtown Kent

Frustrated with trying to find natural and organic products, Susan Thomas created her own solution. She opened Cypriana ~ the natural home store at 205 First Avenue South in downtown Kent last fall. At Cypriana, Susan offers local shoppers an alternative to traditional products which often contain harmful chemicals and artificial ingredients. Instead, the environment-savvy shopper can find an array of natural and/or certified organic products for the home, including:

- DreamSacks bedding – luxuriously soft bedding made from bamboo
- Nandina towels – plush bath linens that are hypoallergenic, anti-microbial and eco-friendly
- Organics for baby – Under the Nile, EcoBaby Organics, Mother-ease diapers, and more
- Running Wild Spirit soaps and lotions – handmade in Washington

In addition to these and other natural products, Susan makes custom slipcovers in traditional and organic fabrics, as well as personalized embroidery. If you’re looking for a way to update your home’s look without replacing your furniture, stop by Cypriana to see all of the custom decorating options available.


Susan Thomas
Cypriana ~ the natural home store