According to a recent survey conducted by Two Sides North America, consumers in the U.S. want to be able to choose whether the communications they receive from utility companies, banks, and other providers are sent to them as digital documents or as paper documents. In many instances, consumers have been unknowingly switched from paper documents to digital document without their knowledge or consent.
Online Access Isn’t Universal
One of the primary reasons consumers want the right to choose what form of communication they receive is not everyone has access to broadband internet services. As of 2021, upwards of 42 million Americans do not have access to the internet. And, 25% of Americans over the age of 65 choose not to go online at all. Hence, switching from paper to all digital can become problematic for companies making the switch.
All Digital Isn’t Necessarily More Eco-Friendly
A conundrum faced by those concerned about sustainability and the environment, is that while reducing unnecessary waste is a laudable goal, the production of electricity — which drives the digital world — is not without its own negative environmental consequences. Eliminating printed paper products can seem laudatory, but blanket elimination of print isn’t, by itself, create true sustainability.
If you have any questions about Printing and Sustainability, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
Photo by Markus Spiske
