As technology continues to improve, our ability to see the environmental impact we have on this planet improves along with it.
One controversial topic that many businesses are faced with is how to safely dispose of their paper in a way that does not contribute to environmental degradation.
In this post, we’ll take a look at the environmental impact of office paper and how to dispose of it while helping the environment thrive.
The Environmental Impact of Paper
As we’ve all heard many times, paper is made from trees. In fact, it takes approximately 24 trees to produce one tonne of printing paper.
Given the fact that Canada uses an estimated 6 million tonnes of paper annually, this means our country is responsible for the death of about 144 million trees each year.
Aside from removing trees from the environment, the production of paper also releases nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon dioxide into the air, which is known to result in increased levels of greenhouse gasses and acid rain.
Many methods of paper disposal like burning or chemical destruction further harm the environment, however, shredding paper is widely considered one of the most environmentally friendly ways to dispose of old paper documents, assuming it’s done properly.
What Does Paper Shredding Involve?
Paper shredding generally involves the mechanical destruction of paper documents and records. It is helpful for a number of reasons. For one, it helps eliminate sensitive information that could be used for nefarious purposes by criminals.
Businesses appreciate this because it helps keep their company and their clients’ companies safe.
Most reliable shredding companies will use equipment with cross-cut technology that makes it virtually impossible for documents to be pieced back together.
Also, from an environmental standpoint, shredding makes it easier to recycle and create new products so not as many trees need to be destroyed for new paper.
Is Shredded Paper Recycled?
Yes, after the shredding process has concluded, most shredding companies will recycle the remaining pieces.
For example, Western Archives makes sure that 100% of their shredded paper is diverted from landfills and sent to the appropriate recycling facility.
What is Shredded Paper Used For?
There are numerous uses for shredded paper, many of which include making new paper products like:
- Office paper
- Toilet paper
- Tissues
- Paper towel
- Napkins
- Greeting cards
- Cardboard
- Magazines
- Newspapers
It also has many uses around the house, including:
- Packing
- Kitty litter
- Pet bedding
- Paper mache
- Mulch
- Seedling pots
- Kindling
- Furniture stuffing
- More!
Safe to say, shredded paper has many more applications when compared to regular paper waste.
Where To Find a Green Paper Shredding Service in Edmonton?
Western Archives is committed to helping Edmonton businesses with their paper shredding needs while also ensuring their practices respect the environment. Their mobile and in-house shredding services ensure that all paper is 100% recycled and doesn’t just end up in a landfill.
If you’re interested in learning more about their paper shredding services in Edmonton and surrounding areas, contact them today!