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The 5 Rs

Solutions You Can Use

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Ways to Reduce Paper Use

Paper efficiency is much like energy efficiency. A more effecient car needs less gas to go the same distance as a less efficient car. However, just as energy efficiency is not about "freezing in the dark," improving paper efficiency does not mean losing any of the wanted information on the paper.

Getting MORE text and images onto the same amount of paper

• Duplexing: Print on both sides of the paper (approximately two-thirds of all copy machines in the U.S. are duplex-capable, yet the duplexing rate is only 15%)
• Paper Reuse: Use the blank side of a previously used sheet for a new purpose.
• Reduce Images: Reduce the size of images and put more of them per page. Even better, send them electronically and just view them onscreen.
• Scrap Paper: There's always space on used paper for more notes!
  

More Ways to Save

• Find an alternative: Instead of writing a note or posting messages, try using a small chalkboard or whiteboard.
• Envelopes: Always reuse envelopes, especially large ones, either to send out again or to reuse for writing notes and lists.
• Recycle: Use recycled paper as much as you can, and always recycle the paper that you use.
• Inspire: Inspire others to conserve paper too!
• Find Your Own Ways: There's lots of them.

Further Reading

Cutting Paper
Iona College Paper Conservation Campaign
Conservatree
Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance