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Paper recycling patterns and potential interventions in the education sector: A case study of paper streams at Rhodes University, South Africa

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  • Amutenya, N.
  • Shackleton, C.M.
  • Whittington-Jones, K.

Abstract

This paper considers the use of paper by academics and student computer laboratories at Rhodes University as a basis for identifying areas to reduce the amounts used and increase rates of recycling. A sample of 50 academic staff monitored the volume and purpose of the paper they used over 5 months, and the procurement officers in all the academic departments were interviewed regarding the total amount of paper used per academic department. Mean use was 34±20 new sheets of paper per working day, of which 3% were trashed, 15% were kept for later use (as scrap or printed on the opposite side) and 79% were given out as notes to students, filed as records or posted out as mail to other departments or institutions. There was a significant relationship between number of students served by a department and the overall demand for paper, as well the number of staff per department and the number of recycling bins. The university could save approximately US$ 7000 per year for every 10% reduction in current use of paper (12,784reams/year). Reduction in paper usage could be achieved through an increase in re-use of paper, printing handouts for students on both sides of each sheet of paper and by investing in printers that are capable of printing on both sides of a sheet of paper. Double-sided printers are only 20–25% more expensive than single-sided ones, but will potentially reduce paper usage by half. A 40% reduction would save the university approximately US $ 20,000 per year in direct costs, and more in reduced waste streams, as well as help promote the environmental image of the university. On a per unit basis, the higher costs for a double-sided printer in offices would be repaid in 9 months or less through reduced paper use.

Suggested Citation

  • Amutenya, N. & Shackleton, C.M. & Whittington-Jones, K., 2009. "Paper recycling patterns and potential interventions in the education sector: A case study of paper streams at Rhodes University, South Africa," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 53(5), pages 237-242.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:recore:v:53:y:2009:i:5:p:237-242
    DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2008.12.001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Prestin, Abby & Pearce, Katy E., 2010. "We care a lot: Formative research for a social marketing campaign to promote school-based recycling," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 54(11), pages 1017-1026.

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