Even in a digital world, most of us still use paper for printing. Instead of throwing it away, you can give it a second life with a few creative ideas. Reusing paper not only saves money but also helps reduce waste.
Scrap Paper for Notes
Printed on one side only? Use the blank side for shopping lists, to-do notes, or doodles. Keep a stack near your desk for quick reminders.
DIY Notepads
Cut leftover sheets into smaller squares, stack them, and staple the corner. You’ve made a handy notepad from paper that would otherwise be recycled straight away.
Kids’ Crafts
Children love drawing, folding, and cutting. Old printouts are perfect for colouring, origami, or making simple decorations without wasting fresh paper.
Wrapping and Gift Tags
Reuse larger sheets as wrapping for small gifts or cut them into shapes for homemade tags. Add a bit of string or ribbon to give presents a unique, eco-friendly touch.
Seed Starters
Paper can be folded into little pots for starting seeds. When the seedlings are ready, plant the whole pot in the soil, where the paper will naturally break down.
Bottom line: Reusing paper at home is easy, practical, and better for the environment. With a little creativity, you can turn old printouts into something useful instead of letting them go to waste.