From offices and schools to hospitals and homes, paper remains one of the most widely used materials in our daily lives. Yet despite the growing focus on sustainability, a large proportion of this paper waste still ends up in landfill.

As businesses and organisations move toward greener operations, it’s vital to consider how paper is used, disposed of, and recycled. At Restore Datashred, we’re committed to helping organisations reduce waste responsibly while ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

How Much Paper Does the UK Waste Each Year?

Each year, the UK uses approximately 12.5 million tonnes of paper and cardboard, and much of it goes to waste.

• Offices generate an estimated 10,000 tonnes of paper annually, with up to 75% of it ending up in the bin.

• Primary school students create around 45kg of paper waste per year, while secondary school students produce around 22kg.

• The total annual paper consumption in the UK equals around 21,000 square kilometres of trees, and recycling just 10% more could save five million trees.

These figures highlight the urgent need for better paper waste management and more sustainable disposal practices across all sectors.

Where Is Paper Wasted the Most?

1. Office Environments

Offices are one of the biggest contributors to paper waste. From unnecessary printing to discarded meeting notes, paper usage adds up quickly.
Simple improvements can make a big difference:

• Adopting cloud-based document storage.

• Implementing a print awareness policy.

• Partnering with a secure shredding company that ensures paper waste is fully recycled after destruction.

At Restore Datashred, we ensure that every shredded document is recycled responsibly combining data protection compliance with environmental sustainability.

2. Schools and Educational Settings

Schools are increasingly embracing technology, which provides excellent opportunities to reduce paper waste.
Practical solutions include:

• Using digital learning tools, such as online quizzes and video lessons.

• Replacing printed newsletters with email communication.

• For well-funded institutions, switching from textbooks to laptops or tablets can dramatically cut paper consumption.

By combining education technology with responsible waste management, schools can significantly reduce their environmental impact.

3. Healthcare and Hospitals

The NHS and private healthcare providers use vast amounts of paper every year. Hospitals can spend up to £1 million annually storing physical documents. Transitioning to digital medical records and prescriptions not only saves space and money but also improves patient confidentiality.

In the meantime, working with a professional shredding partner like Restore Datashred ensures that all paper records are securely destroyed and recycled in line with GDPR and NHS data protection standards.

Partnering with Restore Datashred for Sustainable Paper Disposal

While reducing paper use is crucial, secure destruction and recycling of existing documents is equally important. Partnering with Restore Datashred helps your organisation:

• Comply with GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

• Protect sensitive information with secure on-site or off-site shredding.

• Support environmental goals through certified recycling.

• Reduce landfill waste with a closed-loop recycling process.

• Receive a Certificate of Destruction as proof of secure data handling.

Our shredding services provide both security and sustainability, ensuring your confidential waste is handled responsibly and recycled efficiently.

Start Reducing Paper Waste Today

The UK generates millions of tonnes of paper waste every year, but it doesn’t have to. With Restore Datashred, you can protect your business, comply with data laws, and help build a greener future.

Get in touch today to request a quote for secure paper shredding, whether you need a one-off collection or regular scheduled service.