The effort to keep our environment clean doesn’t end when you leave the beach. When you go green back home, you’re helping reduce waste in our landfills, as well as reducing or eliminating trash that can end up in our waterways.

And that rings true whether you practice good stewardship at home or at the office.

Need some tips on going green at your workplace? We’re here to help.

First, create a “no plastic” zone with only reusable eating utensils, straws or bottles. Suitable drinkware and paper straws are now available, making this easier than ever.

Second, turn off electronics and lighting and adjust heat/AC at the end of the day.

Third, go paperless. We’re already seeing less paper used in transactions. When asked if you want a copy of something, consider whether an emailed version will do. Printed documents contribute to 90 percent of all office waste and take up 10 percent of storage facility space.

Fourth, consider a green commute to work. Can you walk, ride a bike, carpool or take a bus? In some places that’s not feasible, but in others it may work surprisingly well.

Fifth, have a recycling bin. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many offices don’t have a place to recycle your water bottles or soda cans.

And last, but not least, bring a plant to work. Plants act as natural air purifiers, and they remind you and your co-workers of the natural environment. They’re also pretty.

Who’s ready to start the new year by being more responsible with our resources?