The shredding industry has been slow to adopt a green policy as the benefits of such appear advantageous for the environment but not for business. This is a tremendously large misconception; mandating an environmental policy in the shredding industry can serve to generate revenue, establish positive branding and increase credibility. A green policy in the shredding industry will encourage the continued success of the industry and the environment at large by protecting the local economy, contributing to sustainable infrastructure, assisting in waste management and encouraging positive positioning.

An initiative which may be included in a green shredding policy is the elimination of imported products. Encouraging the selection of local products will reduce air pollution resulting from overseas importing and toxins from imported containers. At the onset this policy may appear to only advance environmentalism, yet it can also serve to positively impact the shredding industry at large. The displacement of imported products can develop and sustain the local economy, as well as, remove the fear of North American markets becoming flooded with cheaper, inferior goods.

Mandating the use of sustainably designed and manufactured containers maybe another requisite of a green shredding policy. Furthering the utilization of containers made of recycled content, which are formaldehyde free and recyclable will conserve natural resources and advance the development of green infrastructure. This benefits the shredding industry as a whole as it develops a platform for products which are LEED & CARB compliant; establishing a niche market and successfully penetrating it.

A green policy within the shredding industry can also assist the management of waste. With the correct combination of containers the maximum amount of recyclables can be collected as opposed to tossed into more conveniently placed unsecure waste baskets. This services the environment as it ensures that products with renewable bases are collected and reprocessed.  This is also beneficial for the shredding industry as it establishes a market for customized receptacles which service particular environments, such as, desk-side document storage containers.

Each of these initiatives in conjunction with a complete green policy can work to leverage industry sales by successfully targeting customers seeking products from suppliers actively engaging in green operational practices. Positively positioning the industry in relation to such customers can work to build credibility, develop affirmative branding and produce competitive advantages. Further, the environmental benefits of such are endless; as the process beings to evolve so too does the success of various preservation methods.

Mandating the implementation and continual maintenance of green policies in the shredding industry is a vital step toward safeguarding the environment and industry at large. With a shared concentration on fostering sustainability the shredding industry will benefit from the repositioning of local economies, development of positive branding, increased creditability and new markets.