Many workplaces today are not paper-free; shredded papers can quickly build up. Developing a program to ensure all writing is in the proper bins is important.
A secure program with a trusted commercial shredding partner allows businesses to address regulatory concerns and environmental goals without compromising privacy or security.
Disposal
If your business has a recycling program, training employees to ensure all paper materials are in the proper bins is important. If not, janitorial staff might toss paper into trash bins out of convenience. This is why many businesses work with a document shredding service like Boston document shredding & recycling that handles disposal and recycling. While shredded documents can be recycled, it’s best to avoid using them for anything that requires writing or drawing since sensitive information will be exposed. If you have a lot of shredded paper, try donating it to local schools or art groups that can use it for crafts. Paper is also a great fire starter, but check local laws before lighting it.
The ideal shredding partner will document every step of the disposal process to provide traceability for each batch of shredded documents. This is a good way to meet Corporate Social Responsibility requirements without compromising security.
Recycling
A comprehensive document shredding process is essential for any data security business. In cases where old records are kept around the office or not shredded at all, it can lead to identity theft, compliance breaches, and expensive fines for the company.
Luckily, paper is recyclable, so once you’ve taken care of your sensitive documents, the rest can be recycled. Shredding paper is baled and sent to a mill, where it undergoes a pulping process to remove the ink and adhesive. The fibers are then separated from other materials and used to make new paper, cardboard, or other products.
When choosing a document shredding service, look for one that offers secure recycling. It ensures that your shredded documents stay in the right hands and gives you peace of mind knowing that your papers will be recycled rather than landfilled. You can find drop-off spots for repurposed shredded documents using this recycling locator.
Reuse
Whether from notepads, post-it notes, mail, magazines, or newspapers, paper documents make their way into every business. However, a lack of shredding initiatives can lead to the physical buildup of paper clutter in offices. This not only looks messy but also poses a fire risk. It can block fire escapes and restrict movement around work areas.
The real risk, however, is that unshredded paper could end up in the wrong hands. Identity theft is on the rise, costing businesses billions each year. If criminals find sensitive customer or employee data, it could have devastating consequences for the organization.
Using a professional shredding service to destroy all documents before they’re disposed of will ensure this information can stay in the right hands. Shredded paper can usually be recycled with local recycling programs, but it’s important to check with your city first to find out their protocol. They may require you to add shredded paper to your “browns” mix for composting rather than your blue bin or may not accept it.
Composting
It’s a good idea to toss shredded documents into your compost, especially if the ink is vegetable or soy-based (like the kind used on most printers or pens). However, if you’re concerned about putting private information out there in the wild, try tearing off the page with sensitive info and tossing that part of the document into your bin.
You can also use shredded paper as brown matter for your compost or pack fragile items. You can reuse it as pet bedding or make Easter basket grass from shredded paper.
Businesses can help prevent costly breaches by implementing document destruction policies incorporating ongoing shredding services and a secure chain of custody. It minimizes legal risk, regulatory compliance risk, annual storage expenses, and the cost of a compromised duplicate file.