More and more publishers are switching to recycled stock for their products. Not only could this be a strategic branding technique, but using recycled stock also has many global benefits. To help you better understand this evolving sector in the paper industry, I have included a quick list of benefits and myths of using recycled paper below.
Paper made from 100% recycled content reduces:
- Wood use by 100%
- Wastewater by 50%
- Solid waste by 49%
- Total energy consumption by 44%
- Net greenhouse gas emissions by 38%
The process for making paper out of recycled material is generally more clean and requires less energy than making paper from virgin fibers. Additionally, many publishers are using recycled stock to more effectively target their products to their young adult audiences. For example, the latest hardcover edition and U.S. Deluxe Edition of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was produced on a 100% recycled stock. Additionally, higher education institutions such as
Common myths about recycled paper
- Recycled paper is too expensive.
Take the long view. With the rise and fall of paper prices, sometimes all paper is expensive and sometimes it is low. The experienced paper buyer realizes that paper markets fluctuate and one should recognize that recycled paper’s benefits are far greater than simply dollars.
- Quality is uneven and sometimes spotted.
Many of these issues were confined to the developmental phase of creating recycled paper in the 1980’s but the technology being used by recycled manufactures today have significantly increased. Many studies have proven that recycled paper today meets the highest technical standards, sometimes even exceeding familiar virgin papers.
- Belief that recycled paper has too much curl.
Curl is a complex issue and mostly related to fiber orientation, moisture content and the drying strategy. Many paper manufacturers have refined their processes to significantly limit paper curl and it is important that customers are basing their opinions on high quality recycled grades now available and not on experiences gathered years ago.
There are many resources available today to determine if using recycled stock is right for you and your company. One thing is for sure, using environmentally and socially responsible paper is an opportunity for publishers to make a significant impact on a global level.
For further research on recycled paper organizations and initiatives, please visit:
http://www.fsc.org/en/
Green Press Initiative
http://www.greenpressinitiative.org/index.htm
Cascades Fine Papers
http://www.ecologiquedenature.com/en/
Vicks Lithograph and Printing Corporation
http://www.vicks.biz
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