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I think we all want to do our part in reducing the amount of pollution done to our planet. But it can be hard to know even where to start. In my experience, however, I find that it’s best to start small and do the things that are within your ability.
Reducing paper waste is one of the small ways you can help save our planet. And one of the best ways to do so is to replace sheets upon sheets of printed paper with lots of information on them with a simple QR code, that can be scanned anywhere to access whatever information you or your audience might need.
In this piece I will go over how you can use QR codes to help reduce paper waste and save the planet! It’s time to make Captain Planet proud and reduce pollution!
What is a QR code?
A QR code, or quick response code, is an encoded image containing data, usually stored within black and white squares, though appearances can vary. They can be used to share and distribute tracking information, images, contact information, payment methods, and even web based content like urls, social media accounts, group chats, and videos.
QR codes are also special in that they can be placed just about anywhere and be almost any size while still being scannable. This includes stickers, fliers, cards, or even in on screen media like advertisements, tv shows, movies, and video games.
How can QR codes reduce paper waste?
QR codes can greatly reduce paper waste by providing an easy way to distribute information without having to print out several fliers or packets.
For example: If you own or operate a restaurant, you know that you need menus, and the printing cost for those can be a lot. Not to mention, if you change an item on a menu or even notice a typo, you’ll have to print out all new menus.
Instead, you can simply offer a QR code on each table that will take your guests to a digital menu. This way, you won’t have to print, laminate, and distribute menus to all of your customers, just one QR code per table.
Additionally, if you need to change the menu or update something, you can just edit the website or document, and again not have to reprint potentially dozens of menus.
This logic can be used in other fields as well. Have a thick employee handbook you don’t want to print out? Just give a QR code! Event registry, parking passes, educational information, and contact information can all be shared via QR code, without wasting even one sheet of paper.
Importance of reducing paper waste
While the US has been making great strides in the field of recycling and reducing paper waste, there is still more that can be done. Paper products often fill up landfills if not properly sorted into recycling and require companies to make more to meet demands.
Much of the paper and cardboard thrown out is perfectly recyclable. However, recyclable paper is often thrown out because a person either doesn’t know that what they are holding is recyclable or they are not near the proper receptacle.
This issue can be completely avoided by simply not using paper at all, which is where QR codes can help. By providing your audience with the information they need digitally from a QR code, rather than on a printed piece of paper, you can help to reduce paper waste since there won’t be ably paper at all!
FAQ
Q: If I use a QR code, won’t I still have to print to code out itself?
A: Potentially no. QR codes are still scannable on a digital screen. Plus, even printing out one sticker or business card with your QR code on it will still save far more paper than several 8.5” by 11” sheets.
Q: What if my audience doesn’t use QR codes?
A: If you're sure that your audience will not be able to, or even want to, use QR codes, then don’t use them. The old fashioned way will work just fine!
Q: What type of media can I share via QR code?
A: All sorts of things can be shared via QR codes, very much including all online content via URL links. But also images, contact information, and text documents can be made accessible through a QR code.
Q: Do I need to hire a graphic designer to make my QR code?
A: No. You can create QR codes on your own for free through a service like QR Code Developer.
Q: Do I need a special app to scan a QR code?
A: No. Most modern smart devices, like phones and tablets, are capable of scanning QR codes right from the built in camera app. 3rd party apps are available but not necessary for scanning QR codes.
Q: How do I scan a QR code on a mobile phone?
A: To scan a QR code on a mobile phone, all you need to do is open the camera app, point it at the code, and tap the link when it pops up.
General QR code tips
- Know your audience: If you’re certain that most of your intended audience doesn’t know how to use QR codes or just don’t like them, then don’t use them.
- Keep instructions clear: Provide clear instructions on how to use and scan QR codes as well as where the codes will redirect to.
- Place codes on a flat surface: To make sure that codes are still scannable, only put them on flat surfaces, like walls, tables, posters, or fliers.
- Use high contrast: If using custom colors on a code, make sure that the colors are distinct enough from each other to be read as a QR code.
- Make sure codes are visible: Don’t place codes where patrons are unlikely to see them.
- Only use codes when necessary: If an alternative exists that’s easier for all parties involved, use that.
- Test on multiple devices: Make sure your codes work whether scanned on an Android device, iPhone, tablet, or other device.
Conclusion
While recycling rates around the world overall have gone up, as well as the amount of paper produced going down, it’s still important to remember that the fight for the planet is far from over. In fact, paper waste has actually gone up in recent years, partly due to international imports.
While not a simple one-and-done solution, providing vital information via QR code rather than printed paper can be a good step in helping to save the planet. You can create your own QR codes for free with the tools available from QR Code Developer.
Get started today and see just how easy it is to make your own codes. And remember, the power is yours!