The amount of paper needed is almost 0% or literally very minimal, but there is no change with how business is being done. The concept of less trash stems from the fact that since everything is in electronic form, anything no longer needed could be simply deleted. In a paperless office, the access of information is usually through storage devices and computers, thereby eliminating the use of paper. In a paperless environment, everything is electronic. Records keeping is still intact, exchange of information is still on going. People who run their own business can appreciate the benefits of switching to a paperless environment. For example, the use of online fax service versus the traditional fax machine.

Paperless offices rely on robust tools to ensure that data storage is kept securely and for the longest time possible. Since there will be no need to physically file documents, the space consumed by big filing cabinets can now be freed up. Faxed documents are kept as PDF or TIF files and are stored either on the online fax servers or the office computer, and printer only when needed.

Among the many benefits are less trash, more space, more savings, and improved participation in making our world a better place to live in.