I'm calling for a simple change, that may make a big difference. 

If an organisation or company wishes to send junk mail (mail shots, adverts, menus, estate agent flyers) through the post - then it should be legally required to use recycled paper/card in the first place.

I've just opened three identical envelopes from a local estate agent with thick advertising cards for a service that I don't want. It's going in my recycle bin - but it should have been printed on recycled card in the first place.

According to stopjunkmail.org.uk, An estimated 12 billion pieces of junk mail are distributed to UK households and businesses annually. This is equivalent to between 4.6 and 6.1m trees. The average person gets 65 pieces of addressed junk mail per year. 

Surely it's an easy fix to bring in legislation to insist companies who send junk mail at least do it responsibly, and with more of a care to the environment?  

Make companies print the recycled logo onto their advertising leaflets so the consumer knows, and can report any material that appears to be on 'fresh' paper. 

Bring in penalties for companies who do not use recycled card/paper, and also bring in penalties for printing companies who knowingly add the recycled logo to material which is not printed on recycled paper.

Thank you for reading my petition

picture credit to Wrap UK