Cut Junk-Mail Waste For Good
Each year the average American recieves 41 pounds of junk mail. That’s about an annual average of 560 pieces of unwanted mail, which breaks down to about 11 pieces a week. That unsolicited U.S. mails sent annual will:
• Consume more energy in production and disposal than 2.8 million cars.
• Require 100 million trees for paper.
• End up in the trach (44 precent never opened), bulking up landfills by over half.
• Waste time when you preuse or recycle mail.
• Cost you money if you give into purchasing things you ultimately do not need.
Here are some ways to cut that loss in more ways than one:
1. Remove your name from the Direct Marketing Association list. There is a one dollar fee to do this, but it is worth it in the long run.
2. Remove your name from credit card and insurance mailings. “Opt Out” here.
3. Contact retailers and mailers directly to strike your name from lists for catalogs or contest. If you purchse again, your anme usually gets added back to the list, so you may have to repear the request.
4. Whenever purchasing somethng online or subscribing, check the box that says, “Please do not rent, sell, or trade my name or address.” IOf no such option is available, make a request to that company by phone, e-mail or a personal letter.
5. Support the movement for Junk Mail legislation that allows people to opt out of all direct-mail advertising (much like the Do Not Call registry).
The following companies will contact direct mailers for you for a small fee:
• 41 Pounds: Offers fundrasing opportunities for schools. (866-417-4141)
• Green Dime: Lifetime subscription with 240 tress planted.
• Stop the Junk Mail Subscription: This includes a catalog removal tool and tree planting. (866-769-5885)
*Natural and Sustainable Living Tip: Use concentrated soaps and cleaners since less packaging means less waste for the environment.
March 25th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
I dont usually comment, but after reading through so much info I had to say thanks
October 22nd, 2009 at 2:09 pm
Look to your health; and if you have it, praise God, and value it next to a good conscience; for health is the second blessing that we mortals are capable of; a blessing that money cannot buy.