The government offices will go paperless by the end of this month. It is expected to significantly reduce paper use. A guideline to institutionalise paperless operation will come into effect by September 30.
Department of National Properties’ study conducted in 2013 showed 18 offices consumed nearly 180 tons of paper or 22 truckloads a year.
National Environment Commission’s officer, Jigme Thinley said NEC with the help of other agencies conducted a Life Cycle Assessment which found Nu 11,600 per person a year could be saved.
“It’s a huge amount for the government to save and it will also help reduce environmental impacts.”
Jigme Thinley the process to go paperless will be gradual with some steps implemented immediately.
“For example, print only one original copy and keep it as the master copy and rest we can scan and sent to the relevant people.”
He also said double-sided printer can be used, among other things.
A familiarisation workshop will be conducted soon.
The initiative is part of the sustainable Consumption and Production Project funded by Switch Asia.