CHICAGO—  Banks, utilities and telecoms  continue to encourage (and sometimes force) their customers to switch from paper to electronic communications, using claims that electronic communication is “greener,” “saves trees” or “protects the planet” as justification. A record 53.6 million metric tons (Mt) of electronic waste was generated in 2019, up 21% in just five years. The magnitude of the negative impacts resulting from the use of electronic communication should be cause enough for companies to abandon their unverifiable greenwashing claims that going digital is better for the environment, but the comparison with paper-based communication should seal the deal for those that are committed to responsible marketing practices. Paper is made from a renewable resource – trees from sustainably managed forests. With a recovery rate of 66% in the U.S. and 70% in Canada, paper is recycled more than any other commodity in North America. Most e-waste is either dumped or burned rather than being collected for recycling and reuse.