How to reduce consumption when printing in the workplace
Printing is common practice in most workplaces, but it can have a serious impact on the environment. From the paper it wastes to the energy it consumes, printing can be a leading enabler of a company’s carbon footprint.
As sustainability becomes an increasingly urgent topic, many businesses are looking for ways to lessen the impact they have on the environment. Businesses that embrace sustainable document printing practices can shrink their environmental footprint, save money and boost their reputation.
Read our specialist Ladislav Fernyak’s recommendations on how to introduce sustainable printing practices into the office.
7 tips on how to be greener at printing
1. Print only when you absolutely have to
One of the most effective ways to reduce paper waste in the workplace is to print only when necessary. Before pressing the print button, ask yourself whether you absolutely need the document in printed form. If possible, consider emailing or digitally sharing the document instead.
Our tip: Use the preview function before you print.
Use the print preview function to check the layout and formatting before you print your document. In this way, you will avoid making printing errors and wasting paper.
Many documents can be shared electronically. This saves on paper and reduces the need for printer supplies such as ink and toner. Encourage staff to think twice before printing, and to use digital copies whenever possible.
Our tip: Switch to eco-friendly paper
If your office still uses conventional paper, consider switching to eco-friendly alternatives. Look for paper made from sustainable materials:
- recycled paper,
- CO2 neutral paper,
- FSC-certified paper made from sustainably managed forests.
Environmentally friendly alternatives are often of the same quality as traditional paper, but have less of an impact on the environment.
2. Print on both sides of the paper
Double-sided printing is an easy way to reduce paper consumption. Set the printer to double-sided printing as the default setting. Encourage employees to do the same.
This can halve your paper consumption, potentially resulting in significant savings over time.
3. Recycle printing supplies
Always recycle empty printing supplies – ink cartridges and toners. Many office supply shops offer recycling schemes for these items. When these consumables are recycled, they can be reused or disposed of properly, reducing waste and the impact on the environment.
4. Invest in high-quality printers
Investing in high-quality printers can help you to reduce your impact on the environment. Look for printers that are energy efficient and designed to last for a long time. The initial costs may be higher, but the long-term savings may be substantial.
Our tip: Reduce power consumption with “sleep mode”
Printing is power-consuming. So, it is important to minimise energy consumption wherever you can. One way to do this is to set the printer to sleep mode when it is not in use. Sleep mode can drastically reduce your electricity consumption and save you money on your energy bill.
Lyreco remanufactured ink and toner cartridges are not only more environmentally friendly than conventional cartridges, but are also many times more cost-effective than their branded equivalents. Reused cartridges are put through rigorous cleaning, remanufacturing and quality control processes to ensure they meet or exceed performance standards. This guarantees reliable and consistent print quality.
5. Equipment maintenance
If you maintain your printers properly, they will last longer and won’t need to be replaced. Carry out regular maintenance on printers and equipment, such as cleaning the print heads and replacing worn parts. You will save on costs and reduce the amount of waste.
6. Support digital alternatives
Consider promoting digital printing alternatives whenever you can. This might include emailing documents instead of printing them, using electronic signatures, and storing documents digitally. If you reduce your dependence on paper, you can greatly lessen your impact on the environment.
7. Train your staff
Teach employees about the importance of sustainable printing practices and how they can contribute to these efforts. Provide training on when document printing is necessary and how to print responsibly. If everyone pulls together, businesses can make great strides in reducing their environmental impact.
Adopting sustainable printing practices in the workplace is a simple but effective way for companies and businesses to reduce their environmental impact, save costs, and boost their reputation and brand image. By printing only what you need, using environmentally friendly paper and cutting down on your energy consumption, you can reduce your carbon footprint significantly.
Plus, investing in high-quality printers, purchasing eco-friendly cartridge alternatives, and supporting digital alternatives can help you to reduce your environmental impact even further. By making these simple changes, you can foster a more sustainable workplace that benefits both your business and the planet.
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