7 Ways to Use Less Paper

With Earth Day approaching in April, you might start becoming more conscious about the amount of resources you use on a daily basis. One of the resources we can easily go through and not realize is paper. Although it can be recycled, it is still a resource we should use less of whenever possible. There are plenty of ways to use less paper in your day to day life, and you may find that these 7 Ways to Use Less Paper are quite painless. Take a look at them below so you can produce less waste and live a greener life!

7 Ways to Use Less Paper

1. Invest in durable hand towels.
Instead of going through (and throwing away) multiple rolls of paper towels per week, opt for durable hand towels. These are great for drying hands, washing counters, drying dishes, and so much more. They are reusable of course, so there is no concern of waste.

2. Invest in durable dishware.
It may feel easy to reach for a paper plate, but the truth is it is so wasteful. Instead of buying paper plates, opt for durable and easy clean dishware that you can use on a regular basis. Yes it takes a little more effort, but you will save money and the planet by saying no to paper plates.

3. Try cloth napkins.
A large family can easily go through multiple packages of napkins per month. Instead of wasting all of this paper, invest in cloth napkins. There are so many durable and beautiful varieties to choose from, and when they get dirty you just wash and reuse them.

4. Sign up for e-billing.
Opt to receive bills and invoices via email instead of having the bill mailed to you. This will save paper since the bill and envelope will not need to be printed. Pay online and you save hanging to write a check or use an envelope.

5. Use email over snail mail.
This is a tip that some would debate, but using email instead of snail mail can save TONS of paper. Of course you want to be more personal when sending birthday greetings or condolences, but for basic correspondence use email and save!

6. Opt for dry erase boards or chalk boards.
Use dry erase boards or chalk boards instead of scrap paper or paper calendars. This way you can reuse the surface over and over and there is no waste created. This is a great idea for kids especially, who can otherwise go through tons of paper when coloring and doing crafts.

7. Throw earth friendly parties.
Did you ever notice how much paper is wasted during parties? There are paper napkins, plates, cups, tablecloths, and of course wrapping paper. Be more mindful when throwing parties and use cloth products when possible and recycled paper alternatives for wrapping gifts. For dishes, take the time to use real dishes that can be reused instead of ones that will just end up in a landfill. Invest in some quality cloth table covers so you aren't buying paper ones each party.

Are you ready to start using less paper? Give these 7 ways to use less paper your consideration and see if they can make a difference in your day to day life.