INTRODUCTION
The generation of paper is one of the processes that cause environmental pollution. The machines that involve in paper production release greenhouse gases into the air causing global warming. Admittedly, air pollution is increasing day by day. Also, water pollution is going side by side and water quality is continuously being deteriorated by the release of harmful chemicals that are used in production of paper into surrounding freshwater resources.
Freshwater resources around the water are decreasing due to contamination by chemical discharge, plastic pollution, paper generation, etc. Paper load in waste also demands more landfill sites. So it is safe to say that paper is NOT safe for the environment and it should be used as little as possible and everyone should be trying to change their lifestyles to adopt a paperless lifestyle.
Read: 10 Ways to Eradicate Solid Waste – Methods of Reducing Waste
In such scenarios, old and traditional methods of saving data on paper should be eliminated. Paper documents often get lost, misplaced, stolen or simply wither with age and time. Dematerialization could be an eco-friendly option. New businesses must follow techniques that are more environmentally friendly. Homes and offices are two of many places where paper is used, however many simple ways can be adopted to reduce reliance on the paperwork. Here, 10 simple ways are discussed following which majority could participate in saving the environment. These methods can be opted by people at homes and in offices without major changes in their lives. These little improvements will also help in making your lives easier. Here we go..
Read more: How Can We Make Our Cities Sustainable (An Eco-City)?
Use Digital Apps for Daily Reminder
Whether you are at home or at work, avoid using sticky notes rather use digital apps that remind you after every hour what you have to do next. Convert Paper Document into Digital Format:
Prefer Electronic Bills
Sign up for electronic bills and prefer payment through using online banking. This method is more secured as compared to the use of paper bills and currency notes.
Use Online Payment Method
Instead of paying currency at shops, groceries, malls, use the online payment method. This method has been the most preferred option during pandemics.
Make Use of Notes App During Meetings and Class
During meetings, seminars, workshops, classroom or while noting recipes, opt for a notes app that could save information more conveniently.
Digitalize Photo Albums
Reduce the piles of memorable photo albums by digitizing them that are taking up the spaces in offices and homes.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycling (3Rs)
Following 3Rs is another way to go paperless at home or in your business.
You might also like to read: Solid Waste Management Techniques
Avoid Paper Newspaper For Reading
In offices and homes, people rarely pay attention to stacks of newspapers lying around. You should use digital devices for keeping yourself up to date with hot news and get rid of paper newpapers.
Use Digital Statements
Always go for digital statements that you can save in more than one place and use in case of missing paper.
Avoid Using Paper Brochures and Pamphlets, Rather Use Online Advertisement
In Business Marketing, people should use the online advertising method instead of brochures and pamphlets, because they have other environmental disadvantages associated with them.
Promote Digital Signatures and Business Cards
At home and in offices, everyone should promote digital signatures and business cards and this is another way one can promote greenery and a sustainable environment. There is no use of paper business cards when everyone has a mobile phone in their hands nowadays! What are QR codes for? Or people can simply take a snap of your business information.
Also read: Solid waste – Types, Sources, and Effects
CONCLUSION
The above-mentioned ways are easy-to-follow steps that have many benefits associated with them. Emerging businesses must comply with regulations that favor sustainability and promote a greener environment. Humans need to take the responsibility of saving the Earth and this is only possible if everyone is trying their best to cause less damage to their surroundings. Let’s join hands and save this only livable planet by changing our style of living.
Also check out: Why Should We Go Paperless And How Will It Impact Our Earth?
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