Supporting Sustainability in an Office Environment

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
M/504/7849
Credits:
2
Guided learning hours:
16 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of Evidence

Aim

The aim of this unit is to consider how to promote sustainability in an office environment and how to reduce waste in order to become more efficient.

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Know how to support sustainability and efficiency in an office environment.

Learning Outcome 1: Indicative Content 

Reasons for keeping waste to a minimum in an office environment may include:

  • impact on the environment
  • reduces cost
  • more efficient
  • meet business objectives 

Main causes of waste and how to minimise it may include:

  • excessive use of paper - print double-sided, avoid printing, reuse where possible
  • computers - standby mode
  • lighting - switch off when not required, sensors to switch off after inactivity
  • thermostat management - effective temperature control
  • water management - low flow toilets and showers, install aerators
  • transportation - walk, cycle or use public transport to work

Safe and efficient ways to deal with waste in an office may include:

  • recycling bins
  • bottle banks
  • safe disposal of clinical waste

Ways to improve work efficiency may include:

  • working from home or a site nearer to home
  • use of technology for meetings eg Skype, google hangout
  • send emails rather than letters, where appropriate

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1
    Outline why it is important to keep waste to a minimum in the office environment.
  • 1.2
    Identify the main causes of waste in an office environment.
  • 1.3
    Describe how to minimise waste in an office environment.
  • 1.4
    Describe safe and efficient ways to deal with waste in an office environment, including any hazardous waste.
  • 1.5
    Describe ways to improve work efficiency in the office, including through the use of technology.
2 — Be able to support sustainability in an office environment.

Learning Outcome 2: Indicative Content 

Learners must provide sufficient and valid evidence to achieve this outcome.

Evidence may include a log/diary, witness statements or an employer’s report.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1
    Keep waste to a minimum.
  • 2.2
    Follow procedures for recycling.
  • 2.3
    Follow procedures for the disposal of waste, including any hazardous materials.
  • 2.4
    Follow procedures for the maintenance of equipment.
  • 2.5
    Make best use of technology to work in an efficient way.