Junk the Junk…
… ran the headline that caught my eye. “Junk mail’s carbon footprint equals nine million cars”. These are figures for the US where there is a growing campaign to stop junk mail. In 2005, junk mail overtook first-class post as the most delivered item. And the carbon footprint of all this is ridiculously high.
So, what can we do about it here in the UK?
Well, the IEMA are looking into it. Unfortunately, the time for comments is passed but lets hope some sanity is forthcoming.
My suggestion? I’d like to see all unaddressed mail banned, it’s always junk anyway (with the exception of the sensus forms for the Electroal Roll). All bill payments, organisations, etc., to give you the option for email instead of post (most do but this should be compulsory). All drop outs in papers and magazines should be banned, there’s only so many paper darts you can make.
Here’s a question: Does anyone ever read drop-outs? I mean, who voluntarily puts up their hand and says “Here I am! Please advertise to me.” If you are looking for something, you will go to the web or look for adverts in an appropriate magazine. Gratuitous drop-outs drive me mad and go straight into the re-cycling. I’ve also taken to returning junk mail to sender. It seems to be the most effective way to stop it coming.