10 tree-friendly ways to save paper in the office
Depending on the nature of your business, perhaps going 100% paperless isn’t an option. But you still want to make an impact. These tips will provide ways to save paper in the office and will help you be more mindful about your paper usage. They may even save some money along the way.
Changing the way you work – bring the team on board with your idea to reduce paper in the office, and ask everyone to commit to reducing their own personal consumption of paper.
Checking in and sharing results – it’s a change management process so keep checking in to see what challenges your team is facing. Also share the results you’ve achieved as a team. When they can see the amount of paper being saved, it will likely spur them on to continue on
Double sided printing – a huge saving on paper, and simple and immediate to implement by adjusting your printer settings.
Delayed or code printing – this helps prevent wastage due to printing errors. A quick Google search will help you to figure out how to set this up on your printer.
Consider digital alternatives. Share documents electronically as much as possible. Products such as Google drive, OneDrive and Sharepoint allow multiple colleagues can access a document at once. Ask colleagues to review drafts online, and only print the final copy, if necessary.
Consider note-taking apps as relevant to your business, some listed here.
Reuse printed paper as scrap – confidentiality dependent of course. Otherwise, shred.
Shredded paper can be used for padding for packing boxes, in pot plants or animal cages. Check with your local animal shelter or nursery to see whether they can use it. If not, as a last resort, recycle.
Opt for recycled printer paper which is readily available now (and environmentally friendly toners while you’re at it!)
Recycle all used paper, including shredded paper – but only as a last resort.
By amending your work practices slightly and becoming mindful about how you use paper in the office, you can make a big difference. The planet will thank you!
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Which 3 points can you implement today? Let us know in the comments below!
What other great ideas do you have to save paper in the office? Share it in the comments below!