In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
  
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
  
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.
  

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

 

[elaine41]

I do not ever want a digital receipt for my groceries, petrol etc. How can I check that I have been charged the correct price by the supermarket if I cannot view the receipt before I leave the store? It's too late when I get home & receive the receipt to challenge the cost? For example, yesterday I was overcharged for 2 items at WW. I immediately went to service desk, they checked the shelves & I got my refund. If I had to go home to find this out then I would end up paying the excess as it is too far (& not financially viable) to travel back. I also want an easy way to check with my bank statement that all debits are correct & having to scroll through dozens of emails is not efficient.

 

[BillW41]

Call me old-fashioned, but there is n o way I would entertain digital receipts. I require paper to audit what I've spent and do not want my information included in electronic devices. Simply stop using dangerous chemicals on the paper!

 

[Shane/#]

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

How do you get a digital receipt if there is no internet and the rest of the bullshit being pushed to go digital piss off I'll have my paper receipt for my tax etc then it gets shredded and put into the garden how's that for being environmentally friendly stick you digital receipts where the sun don't shine

 

[Jest]

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

i have over time ended up with receipts that fade and are useless. one has to photo copy.

 

[Sir_Lunchalot]

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Isn't it interesting that the tax department requires these receipts be held for 7 years. it used to be that a receipt was a normal piece of paper printed with either an inkjet or laser printer. Now, for the convenience of the cashless society we have to have the alternative...

 

[Mr Chips]

Whilst we are on that subject (re-cycling and receipts) what about the production of plastic credit cards? I think that would be interesting to find out the statistics on them. It appears that high end universities have nothing else to do and with grants for it.

 

[Rosie]

My question would be how all these things ever got approval in the first place if they are do toxic.

 

[Brody]

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

What is the point ? It is just more change to contend with. Okay if it is Bona Fide
okay, but what if they do it, all it takes
is to accidentally delete the receipt and it is gone.
Having said all that, how many of us has seen how quickly the print fades on a
"Proper Receipt" ?
It becomes just one thing more to cause
a problem for the older folks. Of which I
am one.
If there is something poisonous on the
Receipt get rid of it. Okay the trash it generates could be a problem, but how long before they have altered everything
we know or what feels normal to us ?
Cashless in three years, they say. So many changes.
"Beam me up Scotty this planet sucks'

 

[Littleboy8]

What is the point ? It is just more change to contend with. Okay if it is Bona Fide
okay, but what if they do it, all it takes
is to accidentally delete the receipt and it is gone.
Having said all that, how many of us has seen how quickly the print fades on a
"Proper Receipt" ?
It becomes just one thing more to cause
a problem for the older folks. Of which I
am one.
If there is something poisonous on the
Receipt get rid of it. Okay the trash it generates could be a problem, but how long before they have altered everything
we know or what feels normal to us ?
Cashless in three years, they say. So many changes.
"Beam me up Scotty this planet sucks'

 

[Countryjohn]

One question from me.
Which delivers more environmental damage in a year the BS in all this stuff or the receipts themselves?
If we don’t keep using cash we will be like this. Macquarie bank has said it’s withdrawing cash in November 2024. Use cash

 

[Phantom55]

receipts were invented for a reasons, proof of purchase and price paid, how would one seek a refund or proof of purchase. If dockets are toxic ,then fix it another way ,don't eliminate receipts. no matter what we do ,man is a destructive creature and is destroying the earth and nothing will stop it. IT is his nature, and the earth is destructible and man is the main contributor to its demise. This receipt issue is like re arranging the deck chairs on the titanic.

 

[Mark1]

Isn't it interesting that the tax department requires these receipts be held for 7 years. it used to be that a receipt was a normal piece of paper printed with either an inkjet or laser printer. Now, for the convenience of the cashless society we have to have the alternative...

The tax department is fine with electronic receipts.

 

[Juicy]

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

When I buy something and I have to send a copy of my receipt what do I do? I am not good at the tech stuff.

 

[magpie1]

why has it taken so long to realise this....and surely they would know that a lot of people would still want a form of printed receipt.....next thing you know they will find out that toilet paper is bad for you and want that 'application' to be 'digital' as well.

 

[Barbara C]

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of many minds, a new study has revealed a surprising and concerning detail about a common item we often overlook—paper receipts.

These seemingly innocuous slips of paper carry a larger environmental impact than previously thought.

The research, conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and funded by a CSIRO grant, has found that Australia prints an astonishing 10.6 billion paper receipts yearly.

Moreover, these receipts are typically coated with toxic chemicals, rendering them non-recyclable and contributing significantly to environmental damage.

View attachment 35863

A new research revealed the environmental impact of paper receipts. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels

The report, aptly titled The Life Journey of an Average Receipt, has shed light on the environmental impact of this common item.

The production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, which is comparable to having 20,918 cars on our roads.

The energy generated from this process could power 18,500 homes.

The study was commissioned by Australian start-up Slyp, a company dedicated to reducing the number of paper receipts that end up in landfills.

Slyp aims to replace these with digital versions that can be delivered through banking or business apps on smart devices.

Paul Weingarth, Slyp's CEO, was surprised by the study's findings.

'It was certainly more alarming than we anticipated and demonstrates the reason for the change, and change takes a village or an army, as they say,' he stated.

View attachment 35864

The study found that the production of paper receipts in Australia is equivalent to producing 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon. Credit: SHVETS production/Pexels

The sheer volume of paper receipts produced in Australia is staggering. With the average length of a receipt being 27.85 cm, the total length of receipts produced each year would extend 2.95 million kilometres.

To put this into perspective, this is enough to stretch from the Earth to the Moon, a distance of 384,400km, a whopping 7.6 times.

The study also delved into the supply chain impact of paper receipts, revealing that their production uses up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, 96,227 metric carbons of energy, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.

In stark contrast, digital receipts use zero trees, no water, 3,037 metric carbons of energy and 7.1 million kilowatts of energy.

But the environmental impact is not the only concern. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, coated with a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). This makes them non-recyclable and 1,000 times more toxic than BPA exposure on a plastic bottle.

‘Thermal paper is a special kind of fine paper that is coated with a chemical that changes colour when exposed to heat, instead of using ink for printing,’ the report explained.

The health implications of thermal paper receipts are also a cause for concern. Research has suggested links between BPA and increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

In response to these findings, some retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have already moved away from using BPA coating.

Other major players, such as Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse and the Australian Retailers Association, are collaborating with Slyp to create digital alternatives.

The shift towards digital receipts is not just about environmental and health concerns. It also aligns with the changing habits of consumers.

Weingarth noted that 40 per cent of Australians have stopped carrying a wallet or bank card and use smart devices to make payments. Therefore, it makes sense for receipts to be received digitally through a banking app or Apple Wallet, allowing customers to 'pay and walk away'.

'By switching to a digital-first mindset, we can create a transaction experience that's not only more convenient for the customer but also more environmentally friendly for our planet,' Mr Weingarth said.

In line with the Black Friday sales, Slyp has spearheaded a consortium of key industry players called FutureProof. This consortium aims to transform the way Australians receive and manage receipts.

'In partnership with the government, we are working together to affect change,' Mr Weingarth said. 'It's exciting.'

Some might think the shift towards digital receipts is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. For one, not everyone has access to the necessary technology.

Additionally, some people may have privacy concerns about digital receipts, as they often require customers to provide an email address or phone number.

Key Takeaways

• Australia prints 10.6 billion paper receipts each year, which are largely non-recyclable due to being coated with toxic chemicals.
• A study by the University of Technology Sydney, funded by a CSIRO grant, highlights the significant environmental impact of paper receipts: equivalent to 96,227 metric tonnes of carbon, using up 150,462 trees, 1.56 million litres of water, and 104.7 million kilowatts of energy annually.
• Thermal paper receipts contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially lead to health problems, including increased blood pressure, fertility issues, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Start-up Slyp aims to reduce paper receipt use by promoting digital versions. Collaborations between Slyp and companies like Amazon, Google, NAB, Chemist Warehouse, and the Australian Retailers Association are underway to create digital alternatives.

What are your thoughts on digital receipts, members? Are you willing to make the switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Never. Once again they are blaming the everyday citizen for the amount of trees or carbon or whatever we are wasting. But what about the big corporations eg Woolworths, Coles etc. If they were to stop advertising on our 'Tax Invoices', we would save half the trees. Even when you just buy one item, the receipt is still as long.
May we should start pointing the finger at them. We are entitled to hardcopy of our receipt/tax.
invoice

 

[Ellev]

why has it taken so long to realise this....and surely they would know that a lot of people would still want a form of printed receipt.....next thing you know they will find out that toilet paper is bad for you and want that 'application' to be 'digital' as well.

 

[Lizzylou]

Until I found out that receipts were toxic to the environment I used to recycle them, now they go in the trash, I don't bother with petrol receipts or if I am buying one of two items at the shop. I do however get my receipt for our weekly shopping or when purchasing an appliance because they are there to show what you have brought. But why can't they make the receipts non toxic so we can go back to putting them in the recycle bin, surely if it is a little dearer doing them the way they used but they are not being dosed in harmful to the environment chemicals in the long run we save both money and the environment by not having them in landfills.

 

[Joedgo]

Woolworths Everyday Rewards stores your activity (receipts) on its ap. If you need a hard copy you can print from the ap.

 

[Brody]

why has it taken so long to realise this....and surely they would know that a lot of people would still want a form of printed receipt.....next thing you know they will find out that toilet paper is bad for you and want that 'application' to be 'digital' as well.

How right you are. They will want us to
all put in a "Bida" so we can flush and not wipe . not sure how to spell it
I think it might be a French word.