The survey of the health and environmental effects of paper bills removal (water, electricity, gas and telephones)

Abstract

Background: Increasing of waste generation, including paper and cardboard and improper disposal of them have an adverse impact on public health and the environment, and it can lead to more consumption of energy and natural resources. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the health and environmental effects of removing paper bills (water, electricity, gas, and telephones).

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020. Required data on the number of paper bills generated for total water, electricity, gas, landline and mobile telephone subscribers for a study time period were collected from organization, and related companies, and ministries. The mass of the sample bills was determined by weighing, and its production costs were estimated in terms of paper and printing price. Then the total bills' weight was determined, and their production costs were also estimated for the country. Using reliable scientific sources, particularly the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and assuming that bills were removed, the equivalent amounts of reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption were estimated. Then, reviewing scientific sources, texts, and experiences allowed us to discuss and analyze potential advantages and disadvantages of eliminating bills. Results: The study showed that the total number of bills issued annually (2019-2020) in Iran is 3.160 billion. In case of completely eliminating paper bills and turning them into electronic bills, the production of 2391 tons of paper waste in the country would be prevented; also, 2123 billion Rials would be saved, and 0.6-1.7 million cubic meters of water consumption would be reduced. Also, the production of 1171 - 3464 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases would be prevented. Since there is an electronic platform for sending bills, this method does not have such disadvantages. Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate an urgent need to eliminate paper bills due to the effects of paper production and disposal of waste. Therefore, these steps regarding of completing of eliminating paper bills should be done thoroughly. It is necessary to train and inform people, and also revise some topics regarding sending electronic bills to solve some minor problems.