Paper-saving measures at the Summerland Credit Union have saved more than a million pieces of paper last year and a new initiative is designed to cut paper consumption further this year.
The credit union is now offering its members the opportunity to receive their statements electronically through online banking rather than in paper form.
“We can save a lot of trees by doing this,” said Herlinda Mills, human resources and marketing manager for the credit union.
She added that for each account choosing to opt out of receiving paper statements, the credit union will donate $10 to beautify Giant’s Head Park.
The improvements, to be done this spring, will include work on a designated parking lot and xeriscape planting.
“By opting out, we can give the community a nice park.”
The work will be done in cooperation with the municipal parks and recreation department.
Mills said much of the credit union’s work is either done electronically or backed up electronically.
“It provides that extra security,” she said.
Those who want to opt out of receiving the paper statements may do so either by going to the credit union or visiting the website at sdcu.com.