Most busy offices will have big photocopy machines lurking in the corner. Whilst they can be useful for a fast paced organization, they use a lot of energy which has an impact on our environment.

We need to ensure that we save energy when possible and here are some effective ways to reduce the energy used from your photocopier.

· Copy in batches- When it is possible photocopy material in large batches so that it uses less power. Only ever photocopy exactly what you need. Any more will result in paper and electricity wastage.

· Default to duplex- if the machine has duplex printing set it to this default.

· What do you need to do?- buy a machine that does exactly what you need. Photocopiers can be expensive, and if you don’t need the one with every function available, don’t get it. Low-spec machines may give you everything you need for a lower price and it will use less power and energy.

· Check the type of ink used- look for models that have low melting-point inks. The photocopiers work by heating up components that fuse toner to paper. The lower ink temperature means less energy used.

· Check copy-to-standby times- try and purchase a photocopier that goes quickly from copy to mode to standby. A fast switching mode will save time in energy wasting idol mode.