Save Paper When You Use Copy Machines

Copy machines are necessary in most office environments but can contribute to significant paper wastage if you’re not careful. Here are a few tips to help you be kind to the environment and save money when you use copy machines.

When preparing a large publication for print, consider using smaller font, narrower margins, and smaller or fewer images and graphics to reduce the overall number of pages. Go double-sided wherever possible; change your copier’s default setting to double-sided.

Use recycled or environmentally-friendly copy paper whenever you can. Recycled papers work just as well in laser copiers as regular paper and use less bleaching agents so they contribute to a healthier environment.

Consider “printing on demand.” Rather than printing hundreds of copies of an annual or shareholder report – and risk the chance of them collecting dust – print reports as they are requested and needed to avoid wastage.

Proof on screen. Get into the habit of proofing documents and making changes on screen using track changes – rather than printing documents on copy machines to mark-up by hand. Electronic editing can contribute to significant paper savings.

Review administrative forms and consider which ones can go paperless, such as leave application forms, timesheets, ID applications or travel bookings.