The Supreme Court will accept petitions and affidavits only on A4-size sheets of paper printed on both sides from April 1 in a bid to control environmental degradation and bring uniformity in the use of paper in its day-to-day work.

At present, “legal size” paper, bigger than A-4 sheets, is used in the country’s courts.

Chief Justice of India S.A. Bobde had on January 14 directed the Supreme Court registry to use A4-size sheets printed on both sides for internal communications at all levels.

A new circular dated March 5, which was uploaded on the apex court website on Thursday, said A4-size paper would be accepted on the judicial side from April 1, with required specifications.

“It is notified for the information of all concerned that the Competent Authority has been pleased to direct that: With a view to bring uniformity about use of paper and printing thereon and to minimise consumption of paper and consequently to save the environment”, superior quality A4 size paper would be used, the circular said.