How long does it take to use a ton of paper? It depends on your homework load, but chances are it happens faster than you think—especially when you consider a whole class full of students.
Research shows that using recycled paper (as opposed to virgin paper) will save 3 cubic yards of landfill space. *
Why not turn your homework green by learning to save paper? Here are a few ideas for greening your homework.
Think before you print. It’s easy to slip into the habit of printing out several drafts of a research paper to edit as you go. Train yourself to edit on the computer screen and resist the urge to print out several copies of your paper. This can be a big paper saver!
If you must print, use front and back. Sometimes it’s difficult to avoid printing a few drafts. If you must do it, then be sure to use the front and the back of paper as you work.
Buy recycled notebook paper. It’s available almost everywhere! It’s one of those simple steps that every student could take.
Use old tests and other used paperwork for taking class notes. When you don’t have recycled paper on hand, make your own! Look through your desk and folders to find old papers that are blank on one side. Use them to take notes and encourage your friends to do the same.
Encourage teachers to allow oral presentations in place of written assignments. Teachers will be impressed when you come up with ideas to green your class work. Why not get together with other students and volunteer to do a class presentation instead of a research paper.
Record your notes. If you are an auditory learner, why not ask your teacher if you can tape record your notes instead of writing them down? At home you can listen to the notes and type them into a word processor.
Get creative with technology. Do you love your mp3 player? Ask your teacher if you can create a podcast instead of a research paper. It can’t hurt to ask!
* This statistic comes from Greening Schools, a project by the Illinois EPA and WMRC.
