Business tips: Find ways to reduce your paper waste

By Jess Blackwell

​Regardless of whether you operate a service-based office or a product-based storefront or restaurant, chances are that there are steps you can take to reduce your paper waste. 

For example: 
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• Ask customers if they want a copy of their receipt before printing one. 

• Wherever permitted by law, ask customers whether they would prefer that a digital copy of their documents be sent to them (instead of assuming that they would like a printed copy).  
• Only print documents and forms when absolutely necessary.
• When you must print, print double-sided. 
• When you must print, use recycled paper (it’s a bonus if you buy a brand that doesn’t come in plastic wrapping!). 
• Wherever permitted by law, switch to digital filing instead of printing hard copies (this will also save you some money on storage fees!). 
• Instead of using a pad of paper, take notes on your computer, smartphone, or tablet. 
• Use virtual “sticky notes” instead of actual sticky notes.

If you think it would be possible to implement multiple ways of reducing paper waste, you may still find it’s easier for you and your staff (and your customers) to adapt by making one change at a time. 

Alternatively, if you feel comfortable, go ahead and make multiple changes at once, and, where possible, try to give your customers and staff some notice about the upcoming changes.  This will give you time to address any questions or concerns and prepare everyone for a more sustainable workplace. 

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*This post is based on content originally published at lumida.ca/blog.