Going Paperless: The Post Office Fights Back

The Washington Post reports that the US Postal Service (USPS) says they need junk mail to survive, and are working to thwart legislator’s proposals that would allow consumers to set up blocks on unwanted mail.

The USPS says the economic benefits of standard - their term for junk- mail outweigh the environmental benefits, and claim they can not stay afloat without the income it generates. Because they’re not allowed to hire lobbyists, they’re working with the Direct Marketing Association - a “trade group representing retailers and the printing industry,” in their new “Mail Moves America” campaign. Word is, the campaign contributions are flowing to many a legislator.

This is knowing that 44% of junk mail heads to the recycle bin unopened.

In Alaska, one of the post offices has gone so far as to set a recycle bin outside their office for people to deposit their junk mail on their way out.

Any law proposals put on the agenda since 2007 have yet to pass. And no new ones have been added.

What you can do:

1) Learn Ways to Stop Junk Mail in its Tracks, at Get Rich Slowly. Consumer Advocate Groups that can help.

2) Find out who your elected officials are in Congress, and how they’re voting, at Congress.org. If you’re not happy with them, let them know.

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• March 28, 2008 -- The Green Impact of Going Paperless (2)
• April 7, 2009 -- Save Some Green This Earth Day - Sales at Amazon All Month. Plus 5 More Money-Saving Links (0)
• March 17, 2009 -- It’s EPA Fix a Leak Week. (5)

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