The idea of having a “paperless office” isn’t new however it still isn’t a reality for most businesses. Even with new digital technologies and pressing environmental implications, paper is a standard in almost all offices, in the form of printed documents, sticky notes, business cards and much more. Although it may not be possible to completely eliminate paper from the workplace, there are still many ways to reduce the amount we use.

Store documents online

There’s an online solution for almost any problem, including the need to use less paper. There are many options when it comes to storing, and updating documents online including Google Drive, Evernote and Dropbox. Not only are you able to create those documents online, it also makes it easy to share them if needed and access the files from any computer or your phone.

Set up workstations with dual-monitors

One of the most common reasons someone may to choose to print off documents or emails is so they don’t have to click back and forth on their computer to reference it. By setting up workstations with dual-monitors, employees can pull up the reference documents on one screen while working on a new project on the other.

Move to e-billing

See if it is possible to switch all business transactions to online. In addition to eliminating paper, this will also ensure that all your past records are safely protected and reduces the risk of loosing important bills or pay information. You can also setup employees on a paperless program that allows them to access paystubs and other paperwork online. If you ever need to check older documents, they are much easier to access.

Replace paper in the kitchen

While it might not be the first place you think of to reduce paper, breakrooms create a lot of paper waste. To reduce paper in the kitchen, consider replacing paper towels with cloth towels and providing reusable plates, cups and silverware. If relying solely on reusable products isn’t an option, Eco-Products makes compostable tableware made from sugarcane.

Choose recycled or treeless paper

Although the tips mentioned above will take us one step towards a paperless office, it won’t completely eliminate paper consumption for your company. For those things that you still rely on paper for, there are a number of options to remain environmentally conscious while still getting quality paper products. For you next paper purchase, think about selecting paper that has been recycled or is made of sugarcane like TreeZero.

Reducing paper in the office doesn’t have to be a huge task. A few small changes can make a big impact on how your business consumes paper and move you one step closer to a “paperless office.”