Why is it important to shred?
Shredding keeps business information secure and can prevent identity theft. The shredding process also allows redundant paper records to be recycled into new products, avoiding landfill and reducing environmental impact.
For the business
Despite the widespread use of email and the internet, the amount of information committed to paper seems ever growing. Although most of the management and clerical tasks that used to be called "paperwork" are now computer generated, it is still common practice to produce hard copies or printouts.
At some point these records will be redundant. Much of the contents will be confidential; some could even lead to prosecution under data protection legislation if made public. Therefore their ultimate disposal needs to be carefully considered.
Shredding is the safest and most environmentally friendly solution.
For the home
Some of the issues relating to businesses also apply to householders. Currently the biggest single worry is identity theft and the serious effect this can have on financial security.
The proper care of all relevant records from bank statements to utility bills and their eventual secure destruction will be a major step towards preventing this form of fraud.
Shredding is the safest and most environmentally friendly solution.
