Progressive Insurance Customers Plant 1 Million Trees

When it comes to billing, going paperless can save a number of resources. Capitalizing on this idea, Progressive insurance has been offering incentives to its customers to leave paper billing behind, by planting one tree for every customer who joined the program.

Progressive began offering to plant trees in 2007 to help raise awareness of its paperless initiative. Since then, more than 1 million customers have signed up.

“Our customers rose to the challenge and now we’re following through on our commitment,” said Christine Johnson, Progressive’s customer experience general manager. “When we began the tree planting campaign we had no idea where it would end up, but we’re pleased it has led to such a significant result.”

Aiming for a recycling rate of 60% by 2012, paper recyclers around the country encourage responsible use and disposal of this everyday material. - Rabbittrecycling.co.uk

The trees will be planted by the Arbor Day Foundation, to whom Progressive will provide the funding for the project. Due to fires and other natural causes, over 1 million acres need to be replanted, according tothe U.S. Forest Service. Since 1990, the Arbor Day Foundation has helped to replant more than 13 million trees in areas like this.

“Encouraging customers to go paperless is a great way for companies to help the environment, and we applaud Progressive for doing it. Progressive’s generous donation to plant 1 million trees is truly a significant gift to the environment,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “By planting trees in our nation’s forests, Progressive is making a positive impact for generations to come.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 35 percent of the municipal solid waste stream (MSW) is made up of paper and paperboard products. Paper makes up the largest portion of the municipal waste stream and is also one of the most recovered materials. By participating in paperless billing programs, not only do you conserve natural resources, but you also reduce the use of this common – but easily recycled – waste.

Additionally, saving paper helps organizations save money. Considering postage, paper, ink and transportation costs to print documents for millions of customers every month, it’s no wonder many companies are offering this option.

While Progressive’s tree planting campaign is wrapping up, it will continue to offer discounts where available to customers who choose to go paperless.