More businesses could be using a digital mailroom to communicate with suppliers and customers.
More businesses could be set to use document scanning and storage services as they move towards digital mailing and digital communications with their suppliers and consumers.
This is the view of Raz Godelnik, co-founder of sustainable reading organisation Eco-Libris, who explained that firms are starting to use digital bills and online statements, receipts and other documents sent by email.
"I think we’ve seen growing progress on promotional materials as well – many companies are reducing the number of catalogues they’re sending and looking for online alternatives. They’re cheaper, more efficient and eventually will provide companies with a better return on investment," he posited.
Companies could be persuaded to employ the services a digital mailroom because they are aware of the benefits of going green – a move which could pay dividends at a time when customers are becoming more interested in environmentally friendly practices.
"Many retailers are exploring online catalogues, while others have tried to improve their mailing lists to make sure that they send materials to the right people and reduce the number of copies that will be thrown into the garbage. So it’s win-win – less cost, less paper and also less waste," commented Mr Godelnik.
"I think this is something we’ll see more and more of, because many companies are trying to reduce their costs."
Some companies are also switching from other promotional materials to digital content, meaning they do not have to spend money and resources on printing multiple documents, he added.
Mr Godelnik’s comments came after business consultant Dr Paula Owen urged companies not to shelve their eco-friendly plans as doing so could create a false economy in the long-term.
She noted that some firms could see environmental initiatives as extras rather than essentials, but this thinking is short-sighted because "efficiency and environmental improvements will pay dividend in terms of lower bills and a greater resilience against future energy price rises".