5 Tips to Reduce Household Paper Waste

Paper products - like magazines, paper bags, printer paper, catalogs and boxes- make up the majority of most household waste. In fact, Americans use around 85 million tons of paper and paperboard each year, according to the EPA. All of this use results in the destruction of forests, depletion of natural resources and increased landfills. With a few simple steps, you can easily cut back on the amount of paper your household uses and throws away each year.

Tips to Reduce Household Paper Waste

Recycle

According to the EPA, in 2007, nearly 37 percent of the fibers in paper products came from a recycled source. Using recycled paper pulp cuts down on the amount of virgin materials used to create everything from newspapers to notebook paper. Recycling is the easiest way to cut down on your paper waste. Most curbside recycling programs take any paper or cardboard product including newspapers, catalogs, magazines, paper scraps, cardboard boxes and paper bags.

Switch to Reusable Bags

Cut out the paper bags entirely and switch to reusable ones. Most grocery stores and retail outlets sell reusable bags carrying their store logo or you can purchase your own. Reuseit sells a line of reusable shopping bags made from cotton and hemp. The bags come in several different colors and designs.

Stop the Catalogs

Chances are if you have ever bought anything from a company, you're still getting their mail catalog. Most households get dozens of unsolicited catalogs each month. At Catalog Choice you can search through thousands of catalog providers and opt out of their mailing list. For a $20 donation, you can set up automatic opt-outs.

Skip the Printer

Most people print things they do not really need. For example, if you usually print driving directions, try adding the Google Map application to your phone. This free app lets you view turn-by-turn directions directly from your phone. If you do print something, save the paper and use it for scrap when you are done. Scrap paper is great to have around for writing a quick grocery list or note.

Ditch the Coffee Filters

Standard coffee makers use a paper filter. If you make coffee at home every day, you're using 365 of those paper filters a year. You can switch to a French press and eliminate the need for a filter all together. However, if you would rather keep your regular machine, switch to coffee filters made from a sustainable material or recycled paper. Major grocery chains, such as Winn Dixie, sell eco-friendly filters that work just as well as the standard paper ones.

Paper Recycling Facts and Figures, EPA.