Sustainable networking: how NFC business cards make paper obsolete

The future of networking is paperless

In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, companies and professionals are looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint. From digital invoicing to hybrid working, we see the shift to paperless and efficient work everywhere. One area where this transition often lags behind is networking.

Billions of paper business cards are still printed worldwide. Most end up unused in a drawer—or worse: in the trash. Fortunately, there's a modern and sustainable alternative: the NFC business card .

With a single tap on your smartphone, you can instantly share your information, website, or social media, without wasting a single sheet of paper. In this article, you'll discover why NFC business cards are the key to sustainable networking and how they enhance your professionalism.

1. The downside of paper business cards

Paper business cards seem innocent, but they have a big impact:

• Billions of tickets are printed worldwide each year .

• The production process requires trees, water, ink and energy.

• Only a small percentage is actually used.

Research shows that approximately 88% of paper business cards are thrown away within a week . This not only means waste, but also missed opportunities in your network.

2. What is an NFC business card?

An NFC business card is a smart, digital business card with a built-in chip. When you hold the card against a smartphone, your digital profile automatically opens:

• Contact details

• LinkedIn, Instagram or other social media

• Website or portfolio

• Company information

You only need one card , which will last for years.

3. Why NFC is more sustainable

NFC business cards are an environmentally friendly alternative for three reasons:

1. No paper waste – one card replaces hundreds or thousands of paper tickets.

2. Longer lifespan – a quality NFC card can last for years.

3. Digital updates – changing your job title, phone number, or company? You can update them online without having to print a new set.

This way you combine convenience with a smaller ecological footprint.

4. Sustainability and professionalism

Sustainable entrepreneurship isn't just about costs or the environment; it's also about image. More and more customers and partners are consciously choosing companies that take sustainability seriously.

With an NFC business card you show that you:

• Are innovative and future-oriented.

• Environmentally conscious entrepreneurship.

• Be customer-friendly by making networking easier.

5. Practical situations where NFC makes the difference

An NFC card works wherever you make new contacts:

• Fairs and events : no more carrying stacks of tickets.

• Job applications : impress with innovation and professionalism.

• Hospitality and retail : share your menu or webshop directly.

• International Contacts : Easily link to multilingual websites.

Any situation where you would normally hand out a paper ticket becomes more efficient, faster and more sustainable with NFC.

6. How to switch to NFC

The transition is simple:

1. Choose a design that fits your personal brand or company. Let our designer create one for you.

2. Add your information, links, and social media. Follow the simple steps to register your card.

3. Test your card and use it immediately at your next networking opportunity.

You never have to worry about whether you have enough business cards again – one card is enough.

7. Sustainability as a marketing asset

Besides practical convenience, sustainability is a powerful marketing message. Companies using NFC business cards can promote this as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy .

• Mention in your pitch that you save paper.

• Show that you choose innovative solutions.

• Position your brand as sustainable and future-oriented.

This not only gives you an advantage in your network, but also in the perception of customers and partners.