Do Your Part as a Faculty Member
Do Your Part...
As A Faculty Member
In these challenging times, it is important to identify ways in which we can reduce expenses wherever possible. The University has developed these cost-reduction programs to help us reduce printing and photocopying expense and to be more sustainable – without compromising communications. From photocopying office memos to printing newsletters, it is essential for all of us to be mindful of the ways we can conserve our limited resources.
Resources
Examples
Here are some instances of wasteful practices on campus and recommended solutions.
Workshops and Seminars
The UFCN, University Relations, and the Green team are hosting workshops and seminars on these initiatives.
Tips
Reducing Copy Costs
Follow these simple steps to reduce the number of copies and printouts in your unit and reduce costs.
Contact
For more information, contact your unit's Green Team representative or your communications professional.
What Do I Need to Do?
- Utilize E-learning to reduce printing
- Utilize sites like turnitin.com rather than having students turn in hard copies of assignments
- Establish a class listserv to email assignments, rather than printing them out
- Edit book chapters, journal articles, etc. on the computer rather than editing printed copies
- Edit dissertations on the computer
- Utilize applications like One Note to organize information that you would otherwise keep in a file folder
- Desktop publishing software has made us all graphic designers – BAD graphic designers. Many publications on campus communicate poorly and compromise the image of the university. They are also being reproduced in ways that are unnecessarily expensive and wasteful. Review all materials with your college or unit’s communications office to ensure the best balance between aesthetics, function, readability and cost. If you do not have a publications professional in your area, a list of services is provided (location). A publications professional can save time and resources and help you plan the best way to communicate your message.
- If you must print, try to reduce the number of pages. Condense content to a summary document and refer readers to the web for more information. Use a smaller font and reduce the width of the margins. Decrease leading (the space between the lines of type). Reduce the number of photos/graphic elements or reduce the size of photos/graphics. And always print on both sides of pages whenever possible.
- Reduce the number of pages that need to be printed in color. A 24-page 8.5 x 11 report plus a heavy-weight color front and back cover can cost over $20 each to copy. The same report printed in black with just the front cover printed in color will be less than $2 each to copy. That is over $18 in savings per book (more than 90% in savings).
- Use environmentally-friendly paper when possible and select paper with economy in mind. Ask if a less expensive paper is an option.
- Consider using a "print on demand" service so that copies are ordered as needed. This prevents extra copies from being printed that will not be used.
- Convert tenure and promotion packs from bundles of printed packets to online submissions.
- Get to know your Green Team captain. Your college should have a team leader who is knowledgeable about these programs and many other sustainability initiatives.
- “Think before you ink!” Each of us needs to be more aware of our copying and printing habits, and understand sustainable alternatives
What Are the Benefits?
- Allows more timely and up-to-date communications. When publications are posted on the web, updates and corrections can be made quickly and easily.
- Reduces consumption of office supplies — not just paper, but also toner and other copy-related products,
- Helps save the planet. By reducing the amount of materials you print — and using certified printers for those publications you still produce — you can save trees and help UF meet its sustainability goals.
- Reduces postage expenses by distributing news and information online rather than through the mail.
- Reduces wear and tear on copiers and printers, extending their operating life and saving maintenance expenses.
The Road Ahead
The University has designed these programs to provide opportunities to save without compromising communications. We can do our part by breaking old habits, learning about alternatives and implementing new, better … and permanent ways of reproducing and distributing information on campus.
