Reduce your paper trail

BY NEALE MCDEVITT | McGill's 2002 environmental review showed that some 70 per cent of the university's daily waste stream is recyclable paper – an equivalent of 1,400 metric tons of paper per year. While many people are quick to toss used paper into their recycling bin, they aren't always aware of other simple tricks to reduce paper consumption even more.

• Photocopy on both sides. Whenever you can, photocopy your work on both sides. For added convenience, the Canon copiers deployed by Ancillary Services in early 2004 can be set to print/copy double-sided by default (Go to www.mcgill.ca/ancillary/photocopier/tips/#DOUBLE for instructions on how to fix the settings of your Canon photocopier).
• Print on used paper. Laser printers can be fed with unwrinkled paper that has already been printed on one side. Make a diagonal pen strike across the previously printed side of the paper to ensure minimal confusion.
• Write on used paper. Create a scrap paper pile for writing paper. Make used paper notepads – McGill Printing Services will bind used paper into notepads for minimal cost.
• Only print emails and other documents if absolutely necessary. Faxes are quickly going the way of the dodo – email information in lieu of faxing when possible.