The Feasibility of Double-Sided Printing in the Learning Commons

Abstract

The manufacturing of paper destroys millions of hectares of Canadian forest every year, as well as contributing greenhouse gases to the atmosphere and chemicals to our water and soils. Educational institutions are mass consumers of paper and paper products, and Dalhousie is no exception. The Killam Learning Commons at Dalhousie University is a hub of student activity as well as the largest computer lab on campus. 160 computers feed into 2 high-volume printers that use $20,000 worth of paper and toner per year. This research project investigates the current printing behaviours of students, staff and faculty, and evaluates the feasibility and implications of having double-sided printing as the default option on these 160 computers. The research is conducted through the use of questionnaire, interviews and observational data.