Paper usage Management and Information Technology: An Environmental Case Study at an Australian University

Abstract

IT was supposed to lead to the paperless office. However it has actually caused paper usage levels to increase. There are several social explanations for this increasing trend. Printing technology has become more available, and people have more information to print. In addition people often prefer printed matter to working off a screen. In this article we present a case study of paper usage at a University. It was found that, despite continual pressures escalating paper use, a range of strategies from quotas and charges, doublesided printing, reuse of scrap paper and policy changes had been successful in reducing usage. Motivational factors included cost saving and a commitment to the environment.