The Environmental Impact of Going Paperless

While digital documents seem environmentally friendly, they still have an environmental footprint. Understanding this impact helps make more sustainable choices about document creation, storage, and sharing.

Digital vs Paper Environmental Impact

Paper Documents

• Trees harvested, pulp processed, paper manufactured
• Transportation at multiple stages
• Printing requires ink, toner, and energy
• Physical storage space and climate control
• Can be recycled but often isn't

Digital Documents

• Server energy for storage and processing
• Network energy for transmission
• Device energy for viewing
• Electronic waste from hardware
• Data center cooling requirements

The Carbon Cost of Digital

Email and Attachments

A typical email generates 4g of CO2. Emails with attachments: 50g. While small individually, billions are sent daily.

Cloud Storage

Data centers account for approximately 1% of global electricity use. Files stored in the cloud require constant energy.

Streaming vs Downloading

Streaming the same content repeatedly uses more energy than downloading once and storing locally.

Sustainable Document Practices

Reduce File Sizes

• Compress images and PDFs
• Use efficient formats (WebP, optimized PDF)
• Smaller files = less energy for storage and transfer

Optimize Storage

• Delete unnecessary files and duplicates
• Archive infrequently accessed documents
• Use appropriate resolution for intended use

Smart Sharing

• Share links instead of attachments when possible
• Use one shared document instead of multiple copies
• Avoid "reply all" with attachments

When Digital is Greener

• Frequently updated documents - No reprinting needed
• Shared documents - One file, many readers
• Long-term archival - Less physical space needed
• Global distribution - No shipping emissions

When Paper Might Be Better

• Single read, short documents - Less total energy
• Sustainably sourced paper - Renewable resource
• Recycled paper - Circular economy
• Off-grid situations - No energy needed to read

Best Practices

1. Think before creating - Is this document necessary?
2. Optimize file sizes - Compress before sharing
3. Clean up regularly - Delete unused files
4. Choose green hosts - Many use renewable energy
5. Print consciously - Double-sided, when necessary