How you can save paper

Dating as far back to the time of the ancient Egyptians, paper has had a long, rich history that continues to span today into modern day life.

But even with advances in digital technology and “paperless” offices, the consumption of paper in many parts of the word is on the rise, with expanding production and pulp wood harvesting threatening the last remaining natural forests and the people and wildlife that depend on them. The processing of pulp and paper also consumes vast amounts of energy, releasing a wide range of pollutants into the environment.

But there is a lot you can do as an individual to reduce your paper consumption:

Follow the golden rule and think before you print

Pushing the print button is too easy...and wasteful. So the next time you are about to press that button, ask yourself the golden rule of saving paper: Do I really need to print this?

Use both sides of the sheet of paper

This is a real easy way of reducing your paper consumption by 50%. Set your printer or copier’s defaults to double sided. Select one-sided printing only when really needed.

Avoid printing out single line e-mails or unnecessary copies of documents

Again just follow the golden rule and ask yourself whether you really need to the print.

Use technology

Electronic mail, Internet, Intranets and document scanners can radically reduce paper use, while also saving you time and money.  

Recycle the paper you have and only buy recycled paper

Collect the paper you use and then reuse where possible (print again on the other side if you printed on one side only or use it for note paper). And when you do have to buy new paper make sure it is recycled. You will be able to find this at your local printing or computer store.

Save paper in your workplace

Reductions of 20% or more are possible in most offices. So ask your office manager what they are doing to reduce paper. Remind them that saving paper isn’t just about protecting the environment; it can also save them a lot of money!

WWF has a guide for how businesses can reduce their paper consumption to make it even easier.