Business News

Make Your Mailbox “Greener” with Tips from Pitney Bowes

Thursday 23. April 2009 - This Earth Day, Pitney Bowes Inc. (NYSE: PBI), a leader in mailstream technology, offers tips for consumers wanting to adopt more sustainable practices when it comes to their daily mail delivery.

Numerous studies have shown the true environmental impact of mail and that individual choices can make a big difference in increasing the efficiency of this vitally important communications channel.
In a white paper published last year, Pitney Bowes compared the carbon emissions for the creation and delivery of mail to many household activities. Among other findings, the study revealed that the carbon impact of mail was relatively small when compared to many daily chores. These findings are similar to a US Postal Service life-cycle analysis of mail, which concludes that the annual carbon footprint of a typical household’s mail is equal to the use of a kitchen coffee maker for a year.
“Consumers can make better informed choices when provided with accurate information on mail’s environmental impact,” said Paul Robbertz, Vice President, environment, health and safety, Pitney Bowes. “To truly drive positive environmental changes for mail, consumers need to take action based on facts.”
The mailing industry is already pursuing several ongoing initiatives to further reduce the carbon emissions of mail; however, there are several ways that consumers can help by adopting these simple practices:
Choose the amount and types of mail that you receive— Individuals have control over what is delivered in their mailboxes. The Direct Marketing Association provides a free mail preference service through www.dmachoice.org that enables consumers to select the amount and types of advertising mail that they receive.
Update your mailing address—The Postal Service recently launched an initiative to reduce undeliverable mail caused by bad addresses. With an estimated 43 million Americans moving every year, individuals can help reduce undeliverable mail by updating their mailing address in the Postal Service’s database each time they move.
Recycle the paper-based mail that you receive— The US Environmental Protection Agency reports that mail constitutes only 2 percent of total municipal solid waste; however, only approximately 40 percent of mail is recovered through local recycling programs. Individuals should contact their local or municipal government to learn about mail and paper recycling options in their area or visit www.earth911.com. All mail is recyclable and every consumer should participate.