Other retailers are embracing simplicity, too: Office furniture maker Herman Miller has actively reduced the variations on its iconic Aeron chair.

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Aside from boosting oxygen, indoor plants such as yuccas, lilies and palms also remove airborne toxins emitted by carpets, furniture, paints, and other synthetic products in the office.

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The agencies will be analyzing savings opportunities across the government, in areas such as desktops and laptops, IT software, janitorial and sanitation supplies, office furniture, building maintenance and operations services, and other professional and technical services.

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Sensors, worn on lanyards or placed on office furniture, record how often staffers get up from their desks, consult other teams and hold meetings.

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