Recycling paper

CSE is a low paper consumption organization and only a minimal quantity of paper is used each day. While most of the information is exchanged electronically, some amount of printing on fresh paper does take place. However, all fresh A4 printed sheets are meticulously recycled. They are once again used for making photocopies.

A large portion of paper waste generated in CSE comes from the 20 – 25 newspapers that the library subscribes. Initially the library received 80 - 90 newspapers each day but today with most newspapers being available online, the number of newspapers received physically has come down drastically.

The remaining waste comprises discarded cardboard packing material and postage waste. On an average, CSE generates about 2000 - 2500 kgs of waste paper each year.

Each morning the housekeeping staff collects waste paper from the entire office complex. The paper thus collected is then segregated into recyclable and non recyclable. It is then stored. As soon as a full truckload of paper is collected, it is sent to Vatavaran, a non government, non profit, community based organization based in New Delhi.

Vatavaran's Waste Paper Scheme is a popular barter system that promotes the habit of recycling waste among Delhiites. It accepts waste paper and in return gives away notepads made out of handmade paper.