USPS will go green, save green this holiday
The grass may soon be covered with snow, but that doesn't mean it isn't still green underneath. As part of its continued effort to become more environmentally conscious, the U.S. Postal Service recently announced how it plans to improve eco-friendly shipping services while saving customers money this holiday season. Another way customers can save money is by using address verification software.
One avenue of environmental savings the USPS has instituted is through green packaging. The agency has established new standards for sustainability that govern both Priority Mail, Express Mail supplies and ReadyPost boxes, envelopes and labels. It also uses packaging made with recycled content, which cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions.
Another green feature is USPS postage stamps are recyclable and made with adhesives that are not harmful to the environment.
"The USPS is one of the greenest mailing and shipping companies in the world," said Thomas Day, chief sustainability officer for the USPS. "We offer more than a half-billion eco-responsible mailing, shipping supplies [and] free package pickup."
Supplies and materials aren't the only area in which the USPS is making sustainable efforts. The USPS will deliver more than 18 billion cards, letters and packages during the holidays using 214,000 vehicles - 41,000 of which are alternative fuel-capable, including three-wheeled electric vehicles with zero emissions.