Paper waste is a big issue in business. If you can reduce it in the workplace, you can have a positive impact on the environment and save money. There are many easy ways for businesses and organizations to reduce their paper usage. Even small actions can become a habit and help us to develop a more sustainable, planet-friendly lifestyle.
How to reduce paper consumption in your office
Here are eight ways to reduce paper use:
Think before you print
Think twice if you really need to print. If it is necessary to print it out, ensure you print on both sides (duplex).which is a really easy way to reduce paper consumption by half.
Switch to digital forms
Whether you are sending customer satisfaction surveys, asking for product feedback, or requesting information about task progress, using digital forms is more convenient and efficient as well as less expensive. Additionally, online forms allow you to integrate responses automatically with other software your company uses.
Use electronic means to communicate
Today’s technologies provide many opportunities for businesses to work with far less paper. Email, Intranets, Internet and document scanners can reduce paper use comprehensively while also saving time and money.
Email, text messages and other platforms can be used to send information without harming the environment and are more likely to be remembered than a slip of paper.
Track the personal printing footprint in your office
Create systems to measure how many print copies your workers are personally responsible for each month. This knowledge will motivate them to reduce their personal paper footprint. You can also run competitions to promote less printing such as “Green Champion of the month” to award those who printed the least copies.
Store files digitally
Saving your documents to a server or cloud-based system is an eco-friendly solution, but it can also enhance office productivity. Using a digital archive, you will keep all your files organized and stored to your liking. This allows employees to access them when they them and keep the files safe.
Switch to digital reporting
Reporting becomes easier when your records are kept into a digital system. Software can offer standard reports with a couple of clicks and can provide real time insights and allow users to customize their reports. Digital reporting saves time, money and improve accuracy.
Print on both sides of the paper
If you need to print, printing on both sides of the paper will reduce, significantly, paper waste. It can actually save up to 50% of paper costs. Duplexing saves money on paper purchasing, as well as on storage and mailing.
Buy recycled paper
Buying recycled paper saves energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and keeps landfill space free for other types of trash that can’t be recycled. You should also consider purchasing paper made from hemp, organic cotton, or pre-recycled paper materials, alternatives that could also help to cut down paper production.
You might not be able to save the world by saving paper. But by following these tips to save paper in the office, you will be doing your part to help encourage a sustainability-conscious company.
