We measured duplexing rates on many copiers over extended periods of time. We found that the rates vary widely and that even simple, inexpensive interventions can save considerable paper. In assessing technologies and policies, we have identified several good ways to transform future office equipment to reduce paper use without involving consumers directly. An obvious way to use less paper is to use both sides of each sheet. Duplexing rates are usually measured over a period of time for one or more pieces of imaging equipment.
Most copies made today are single-sided.
We measured the duplexing rate on two copiers for several months, and after one month changed the default copy mode to double-sided. For both copiers, the average duplexing rate rose markedly with default duplex. The x-axis is the number of images made and so corresponds to time. The figure shows the data in more detail. The x-axis is the number of images made and corresponds to time.