As a researcher, I am required to keep abreast of the scientific literature. This means reading (and most likely printing) dozens, if not hundreds, of scientific manuscripts each and every year. Often, this also involves taking notes which also requires further paper usage.

To cut back on paper usage (and waste), all of which will need to be recycled (incurring an additional cost), I have switched to an electronic office.... more »

All documentation within our systems should be electronic, as it allows us to better manage, organize, store, transport and replicate information. We will save a lot, by implementing this initiative completely. With the production of large amounts of documentation there is a lot of overhead.

Agencies must supply not only the printers but all the parts to maintain them – along with service contracts and of course, paper.... more »

Prior to working for the federal government, I spent approximately five (5) years employed in the private sector. A growing practice was the implementation of faxmail. The idea is simple: an individual is assigned a phone number, and when he/she receives a fax, it goes directly into his/her email inbox.

With the goal of creating a paperless work environment, the receipt of an electronic fax will create an instant savings... more »

Computers,monitors, printers, and other office device use electricity when on standby. Often it is as much as they use when on, one way to save energy is to completely shut down all items completely. Another idea would to attack all items to a power strip and flip the switch when not in use or at night.

SAVE at least $3.7 million - Employees with computers should have to use the e-calendar built into MS Office or their system's equivalent, (MACs have iCal). If only 1/2 the Federal employees have a desk calendar costing $2.68 or more, the annual cost for calendars is at least $3,783,861 nationally.

The 2009 Census Bureau indicates there were 2,823,777 full and part-time Federal employees.

If every employee who has... more »