Computers may save time but they sure waste a lot of paper. About 98 percent of everything printed out by a computer is garbage that no one ever reads.

Andy Rooney’s quote, "Computers may save time but they sure waste a lot of paper. About 98 percent of everything printed out by a computer is garbage that no one ever reads," highlights the ironic side of our increasing reliance on technology. While computers have undoubtedly streamlined many processes and increased efficiency, they have also led to excessive paper waste. Rooney is pointing out that even though computers help us work faster, they often produce large quantities of printed material that serve little to no practical purpose.

Rooney’s reference to the 98 percent of printed documents being "garbage" speaks to the tendency to print unnecessary files, emails, and reports that ultimately don’t contribute to meaningful work. The quote critiques the environmental and practical costs of printing, particularly in the era of digital communication. He emphasizes that much of the paper generated by computers is never even reviewed, pointing out a disconnect between technological advancement and the management of resources like paper.

The quote also draws attention to the inefficiency in the way computers and digital tools are often used. While computers can speed up work processes, they also create physical waste, which seems contradictory when compared to the potential for digital storage and cloud-based solutions. Rooney uses this observation to humorously critique a common habit in office culture—printing everything, even when it's unnecessary.

In essence, Andy Rooney’s quote reflects on the unintended consequences of technology—specifically, the waste it can generate in terms of paper. It serves as a reminder that while computers have transformed the way we work and communicate, their impact on the environment and efficiency should be carefully considered, especially when it comes to the amount of unnecessary printing.