Going Green in Academic Publishing: Our Paper Recycling Story

Let’s talk about something close to our hearts at Van Schaik Publishers: sustainability. As publishers, we’re all about spreading ideas and knowledge. But we also know that our industry can have a big impact on the environment, especially when it comes to paper usage.

That’s why we’ve made a commitment to ramp up our paper recycling efforts. Why should paper that’s served its purpose end up in a landfill when it can have a second life?

Why we're recycling paper

Think about it: Every manuscript, every draft, every report – they all sometimes start with paper. And while we love the feel of a good old-fashioned book, we also know that producing paper takes a toll on our planet. By recycling, we’re doing our bit to reduce that toll – saving trees, cutting down on energy use, and curbing greenhouse gas emissions.

What we're doing

At Van Schaik Publishers, recycling isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a way of life. From the moment a manuscript lands on our desks to the final printed copy, we’re all about using paper wisely and ensuring none goes to waste. Every scrap, misprint, and doodle on the margins gets a chance to be reborn as something new.

And that’s not all. As part of our "going green" initiatives, we’re also embracing digital publishing. That means more of our books are available in digital formats, reducing the need for paper altogether.

How you can help

But we know we can’t do it alone. That’s where you come in. Here are a few ways you can join us on this green journey:

1. Think before you print: Before hitting that print button, ask yourself if you really need a hard copy. Sometimes digital is just as good – and a lot better for the planet.
2. Recycle responsibly: Whether you’re at home, at work, or out and about, make sure you’re putting your paper in the recycling bin. Every little bit helps!
3. Spread the word: Share our story and our commitment to sustainability with your friends, colleagues, and social networks. The more people who know about what we’re doing, the bigger impact we can make.
4. Get creative: Have an idea for how we can improve our recycling efforts? We’re all ears! Drop us a line and let us know how you think we can do better.

Making a difference, one page at a time

Sure, we’ve still got a long way to go. But we’re not afraid to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty – figuratively speaking, of course. By keeping track of our paper use, setting goals, and constantly looking for ways to improve, we’re making sure that our commitment to recycling isn’t just a passing fad – it’s a core part of who we are.

Join us on the journey

Whether you’re an author, a reader, or just someone who cares about the planet, there’s a place for you in our recycling revolution. By joining hands with us, you’re not just supporting a publishing house – you’re becoming a part of a community dedicated to preserving our environment for future generations. Together, we can turn the page on wasteful practices and write a new chapter on sustainability in academic publishing.