GDPR overzealousness a non-compliance with ESG?

Have you ever wondered how many trees had to be cut down so that we could sign all those information clauses? Yes, exactly – the same ones that make our eyes hurt and our heads burst from the information overload. The problem of excessive bureaucracy around data protection is not only a matter of inconvenience for all of us, but also a real problem for the environment.

The example comes from above

Large corporations require us to sign every clause, but this trend is quickly being adopted by smaller companies and startups. In this way, we waste not only paper, but also the time and patience of consumers. The public sector is particularly affected, because government entities must use templates imposed by EU projects. Failure to comply with them results in failed inspections and red colors in the report. After the rows about entrusting personal data in EU projects, it was possible to change the status quo - here too, it will finally succeed.

What alternatives do we have?

So how can we simplify this process and make it more sustainable? First of all, there are many ways to prove that a person has been informed about the processing of their data. We can place a privacy policy on a website, hang a laminated text on the reception desk or add a relevant clause in the footer of an email. In larger companies, compliance with Article 13 of the GDPR can be proven by having internal customer support procedures. A layered approach is key to success - instead of bombarding users with 20-40 page documents, we can divide the information into easily digestible fragments.

Why is it so important?

Consumers already have difficulty sorting through the maze of information, especially when privacy policies, terms and conditions, and instructions take up dozens of pages of small print. That is why we should strive to use shorter, more concise forms of communication that also meet legal requirements.

Let information clauses stop being a nightmare and a burden for the environment. Let's make sure that information about data processing is simple, clear and effective. There are much more serious problems in the GDPR than a letter in the information obligation or correct information about rights. Together we can make the world a better place, both for people and for nature. By introducing more sustainable practices, we will not only meet legal requirements, but also gain the respect of customers and contribute to environmental protection.