Paper Options

Marketplace Sustainability

Why Preferences for Paper Matter in the Digital Age

TEbner — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 17:01:55 +0000

Why Preferences for Paper Matter in the Digital Age

TEbner Mon, 08/21/2023 - 13:01

In an increasingly digital world, paper continues to offer many advantages.

From permanent record-keeping to accessibility and sustainability, paper provides a range of benefits that make it a valuable option.

Let’s explore why preferences for paper matter.

Permanence

Paper can provide a tangible and lasting record. Many digital files are susceptible to accidental deletion, data corruption, or technology failures.

Documents such as legal contracts, historical archives and medical records are frequently printed on paper to ensure permanence.

With proper storage and maintenance, paper-based records can withstand the test of time.

Accessibility

Paper offers an accessible option. Not only can writing on paper increase comprehension, but it can also facilitate communication between hearing and hearing impaired or Deaf groups.

Blind and Deaf-Blind communities can also utilize paper for braille and learning opportunities better experienced through touch.

Digital divides still exist, and according to the Federal Communications Commission 25% of rural Americans do not have access to broadband.

Assistive technology, while convenient and forward-thinking, is a privilege and should not be considered the baseline. Paper-based learning materials, in addition to providing cognitive benefits, also provide a much-needed break from the digital world.

Sustainability

Paper options are a sustainable choice. And the paper industry is working to advance sustainability through innovation and efforts, like:

Sustainable Forest Management
Efficient Manufacturing
Use of Renewable Biomass Energy
Sustainable Water Management
Paper Recycling

Paper is also one of the most widely recycled materials in the United States. The paper industry actively invests in recycling infrastructure and encourages recycling best practices.

Sustainable practices are the foundation of the paper industry.

In a world where innovation and tradition meet, paper remains useful and beneficial every single day.

Even as digital advancements emerge, the key to unlocking the future includes paper options.

What the Paper Industry is Doing to Improve Recycling

The paper recycling rate has met or exceeded 63% every year since 2009. Paper recycling is a model that works because of the industry’s investment and the millions of people who recycle every day. Read what we’re doing to continue to improve paper recycling.

The History of Paper

Before paper as we know it existed, people communicated through pictures and symbols carved into tree bark, painted on cave walls, and marked on papyrus or clay tablets. Then, paper came along.

How Do You Recycle Shredded Paper?

Can you recycle shredded paper? Yes, but shredding it makes the paper less likely to be recycled if small bits of paper aren't properly contained. Only shred things with sensitive information to protect your privacy.

Update in Brief

Why You Shouldn't Go Completely Paperless

TEbner — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 13:00:58 +0000

Why You Shouldn't Go Completely Paperless

TEbner Mon, 07/24/2023 - 09:00

The notion of going paperless is popular – from digital documents to e-signatures and e-books. Going paperless may not always be the best solution. Paper continues to offer numerous advantages as a medium of choice for reading and writing. It’s also secure and provides an accessible option.

There are benefits to taking a balanced approach between digital and paper-based options. Let's explore why.

CONNECTION AND RETENTION

Paper provides a tangible connection. It also helps you learn and retain information better.

Studies show reading on paper helps readers better comprehend information. So does taking notes on paper.

Paper is an invaluable tool for learning, brainstorming and creative thinking.

SECURITY AND RELIABILITY

While digital storage is convenient, it is not without cyber threats and vulnerabilities.

Cybersecurity risks and data breaches continue to be a growing concern.

Physical copies can help ensure the safety and reliability of critical information, providing peace of mind.

Paper-based records offer an alternative to reduce digital theft, hacking or accidental data loss.

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL

The digital divide persists in America. The Federal Communications Commission estimates 25% of rural Americans do not have access to broadband.

By going paperless, or imposing fees to choose paper, we risk excluding people from essential information and services like prescription information or Social Security benefits.

Printed materials offer accessible options for those with disabilities like vision impairments or dyslexia.

Paper-based materials ensure everyone has access to crucial documents. This includes government forms, legal contracts and healthcare records.

Providing both digital and paper options promote inclusivity and accessibility.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF PAPER

Paper is a sustainable option for modern life. And the paper industry is an advocate for sustainable forestry. Through our Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 goals, our members are reducing emissions, managing water resources and increasing energy efficiency.

The paper and wood products industry was among the first manufacturing industries to take voluntary action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Since 2005, AF&PA members have reduced GHG emissions by more than 24%. And they’ve committed to reducing GHG emissions by 50% by 2030.

Paper products are made from renewable resources – trees and recycled paper. About 80% of U.S. paper mills use some recycled paper fiber to make renewable products like office paper, newspaper, books and magazines.

Even with digitization, it’s important to recognize the enduring value of paper.

A balanced approach takes advantage of paper-based options.

How Do You Recycle Shredded Paper?

Paper Products and Materials Widely Accepted for Recycling

The vast majority of Americans have access to a community paper recycling program. Items like pizza boxes, cardboard boxes and paper bags are widely collected for recycling in the United States.

Is the Paper Industry Sustainable?

The answer is yes! Your essential paper products are sustainable. The paper industry is a leader in sustainability, taking steps to reduce GHG emissions, increase energy efficiency and advance sustainable forest management.

Update in Brief

Paper Bags Are a Sustainable Choice for New Jersey

TEbner — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 13:46:03 +0000

Paper Bags Are a Sustainable Choice for New Jersey

TEbner Wed, 10/05/2022 - 09:46

CONTACT: Tim Ebner
(202) 463-2436, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock released the following statement in response to renewed discussions on the harm caused by New Jersey’s paper bag ban:

“Paper bags are a sustainable choice and part of an environmental solution for the Garden State.

“Recyclable paper bags can serve as an alternative to the increasing volume of reusable, but non-recyclable, bags being distributed without any plan for end-of-life impacts.

“New Jersey is the only state in the nation that has banned paper bags. Lawmakers in Trenton can fix this broken law right now. An amendment is needed to ensure access to paper bags, which are 100% recyclable, as well as reusable and compostable.”

Product Stewardship

AF&PA Releases New Guide to Further Advance Paper Recycling

superuser — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 13:37:56 +0000

AF&PA Releases New Guide to Further Advance Paper Recycling

superuser Tue, 03/02/2021 - 08:37

The Design Guidance for Recyclability for Paper-based Packaging is a data-driven resource to aid packaging designers and brands.

CONTACT: Tim Ebner

(202) 463-2436, comm@afandpa.org

Building on the sustainability success of paper based packaging and recycling, the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today released a new tool, The Design Guidance for Recyclability, a data-driven resource to aid packaging designers and brands in the design and manufacture of packaging to meet recyclability goals.

“Paper recycling is a circular economy success story. Increasingly, consumers are seeking more sustainable packaging, and as a result, brands are challenged to add more recyclable packaging to their portfolio. Combining our industry’s track record on paper recycling – meeting or exceeding a 63 percent recycling rate since 2009 – along with AF&PA’s industry data and statistics, this guide will be a true asset to those seeking to innovate around sustainable packaging. I am confident that a deeper understanding, as to the complexities brands and packaging designers face in balancing design and performance with recyclability, will further advance paper recycling innovation,” said Heidi Brock, AF&PA President and CEO. The findings in the report are the result of an AF&PA member survey of company mills in a range of sectors in the United States and Canada. The survey had a 75 percent response rate. In total, data for 86 mills was reported.

The study included corrugated packaging, bleached and unbleached paperboard cartons, carrier stock cartons, Kraft paper bags, multiwall shipping sacks and molded fiber containers. The study examined numerous non-fiber elements including inks and dyes, adhesives, tapes and labels, coatings and barriers, metals and plastics, foils, wet strength, and non-tree fibers.

Key findings include:

Non-fiber elements may present a recycling “challenge” when they slow down the mill’s pulping process, plug screening systems or leave residue on finished paper or paperboard. However, innovations in packaging design and materials, as well as improvements in recycling technology, have made these treatments easier to recycle than historically.
Being a “challenge” does not mean “not recyclable.” Each non-fiber element applied to each kind of packaging was rated by some mills as not a “challenge.”

“This technical guidance is not meant to be mandatory or a standard for the packaging industry. Rather, it is an information tool to help individuals and organizations that specify and design packaging to better meet a customer’s recycling needs,” said Brian Hawkinson, AF&PA’s Executive Director of Recovered Fiber.

In addition to data about the impact non-fiber elements have on packaging recyclability, the report includes resources about the recycling process, standards and testing facilities and insights from mills on specific non-fiber elements.

The Design Guidance for Recyclability is available for free download.

Marketplace Sustainability

Packaging

AF&PA Opposes New Jersey’s Ban on Paper Bags

superuser — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 04:04:56 +0000

AF&PA Opposes New Jersey’s Ban on Paper Bags

superuser Wed, 11/04/2020 - 23:04

CONTACT: Tim Ebner

(202) 463-2587, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement regarding New Jersey’s Paper Bag Ban (NJ Senate Bill 864 / Assembly Bill 1978):

“The American Forest & Paper Association opposes the action taken today by Governor Phil Murphy, signing into law a statewide ban on paper bags. This action undermines an environmentally responsible option for consumers. New Jersey is now the only state in the nation to ban paper bags, which are made from a renewable resource and are recyclable, reusable and compostable, providing a safe packaging option to protect purchases from damage and contamination. With the stroke of a pen, Governor Murphy sent an alarming message in devaluing family-wage manufacturing jobs, which are often union labor. This is an unfortunate message to send to the thousands of people working in direct and indirect jobs supported by the paper and wood products industry in the Garden State.”

Product Stewardship

AF&PA Celebrates 60th Anniversary of National Forest Products Week

superuser — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 02:42:42 +0000

AF&PA Celebrates 60th Anniversary of National Forest Products Week

superuser Mon, 10/19/2020 - 22:42

CONTACT: Tim Ebner

(202) 463-2436, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON — American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement recognizing the 60th anniversary of National Forest Products Week (October 18 – 24):

“This week, during National Forest Products Week, we celebrate the undeniable value of the 950,000 people who work in the forest products industry – working safely to make essential products.

“From tissue and paper towels, to packaging around the goods you ordered online, to the cups holding your coffee, paper and wood products contribute to our everyday lives. And, demand for these products encourages forest landowners to grow and replant trees, keeping forests as forests.

“The forest products industry is one of the largest manufacturing sectors in America, accounting for roughly four percent of U.S. manufacturing GDP and employs people in rural and urban communities across 45 states. Dedicated employees form the foundation of our industry, and because of them, we are leading on one of the most comprehensive sets of quantifiable sustainability goals of any U.S. manufacturing industry – our Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 initiative. The contributions of individuals have helped our industry reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water use, improve energy efficiency, increase paper recycling, and advance workplace safety and sustainable forestry.

“National Forest Products Week provides a welcome stage to celebrate and share the compelling story behind our people, and spotlight how their work makes a difference for our planet.”

For more information about AF&PA and the products our member companies make, visit afandpa.org. Follow us at @ForestandPaper and join the conversation with #ForestProductsWeek for real-time news on National Forest Products Week. And this year, AF&PA turned to an inquisitive group of kids to help answer their questions.

Watch and share these YouTube videos on forestry and forest products:

Sustainable Forestry

University Teams Think Outside the Box on Student Design Challenge

superuser — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 04:03:21 +0000

University Teams Think Outside the Box on Student Design Challenge

superuser Fri, 10/16/2020 - 00:03

Each year, the Paperboard Packaging Alliance (PPA) Student Design Challenge showcases the creative talent, design skills and innovative approaches of students, helping foster awareness and appreciation of paperboard packaging with the next generation of packaging design decision-makers.

This year 30 teams participated. Their challenge was to design an innovative packaging toolkit for educators as part of the Trees into Cartons, Cartons into Trees (TICCIT®) program, which engages third through fifth graders in an environmental and educational activity, highlighting the renewability and sustainability of paper and paperboard packaging.

The challenge was more than a contest. The winning design will help make a real-world impact.

Student designers from Ryerson University won first place and their design will be put into production and adapted for use in the TICCIT® program. Congratulations to the winning teams, and all the participants!

2020 Students Design Challenge Winners

1st Place: Ryerson University Team: Dorotea Bajic and Laura Rendell-Dean Advisors: Natalia Lumby and Jay Park

2nd Place: Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Team: Rachel Goldberg, Luke Hallick, Brianna Johnson, Allison Kunz, Jenna Robinson Advisors: Carlos Diaz-Acosta, Lorrie Frear, Emily Barclay

3rd Place: Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Team: Valeria Bornacelli, Michelle Kim, Ashley Markiewicz, Margaret Seleznev Advisors: Sandra Krasovec, Adam Straus

Honorable Mention: Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Team: Daeya Shealy, Erica Boyd, Anna Schum-Houck, Sierra Babcock Advisors: Carlos Diaz-Acosta, Lorrie Frear, Emily Barclay

The 20^th annual PPA Student Design Challenge will kick off soon. Students will design packaging for a hunger relief organization that enhances the recipients’ experience and can be used for storage. The deadline for submissions is Friday, June 4, 2021. The challenge packet will be available in the coming weeks at paperboardpackaging.org.

See the PPA 2020 Student Design Challenge entries.

AF&PA Urges Governor Murphy to Issue a Conditional Veto on New Jersey’s Paper Bag Ban

superuser — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 14:57:12 +0000

AF&PA Urges Governor Murphy to Issue a Conditional Veto on New Jersey’s Paper Bag Ban

superuser Thu, 09/24/2020 - 10:57

CONTACT: Lindsay Murphy / Tim Ebner

(202) 463-2587, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON — The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement regarding the passage of New Jersey’s Paper Bag Ban (NJ Senate Bill 864 / Assembly Bill 1978):

“The American Forest & Paper Association opposes bans on paper products and urges Governor Phil Murphy to issue a conditional veto that removes paper from New Jersey’s bag ban. In voting to become the first and only state in the nation to ban paper bags, the New Jersey Legislature has undermined an environmentally responsible option for consumers. Furthermore, the ban on paper bags sends an alarming message in devaluing family wage jobs, which are often union labor, in addition to the indirect jobs supported by the paper and wood products industry in the state.

“Paper is part of the environmental solution, but New Jersey is treating it like the problem. Governor Murphy should take action to ensure continued consumer access to a recyclable, reusable and compostable product — the paper bag.”

Product Stewardship

AF&PA Disappointed in U.S. Department of Labor’s New Notice-and-Access Rule for Retirement Plans

superuser — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 18:19:45 +0000

AF&PA Disappointed in U.S. Department of Labor’s New Notice-and-Access Rule for Retirement Plans

superuser Mon, 07/27/2020 - 14:19

CONTACT: Lindsay Murphy / Tim Ebner

(202) 463-2587, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Labor put a new rule into effect that allows employee benefit plan administrators to use an electronic “notice-and-access” disclosure system, as a default method, which will make it much more difficult for millions of Americans who received critical, paper-based information about their 401k, pension and retirement plan rules. In a 2019 Pew Research Center survey, 10 percent of U.S. adults said they do not use the internet. American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement in response to the rule:

“The American Forest & Paper Association is disappointed the Department of Labor’s ‘notice-and-access’ rule will result in fewer Americans receiving critical financial information to help them plan for retirement.

“By creating electronic disclosures as the default, U.S. retirement plan holders must now navigate an onerous process to retrieve critical plan and benefit information that would otherwise arrive automatically and reliably by mail. This rule also goes into effect at a time when millions of Americans are worried about COVID-19 and their personal finances. Requiring retirement plan participants and beneficiaries to track down essential documents runs counter to the ‘common-sense’ efforts the Department of Labor sought to address in the first place. Consumers didn’t ask for this change, and the rule undermines the DOL mission to assure work-related benefits are provided to wage earners and retirees. We encourage Americans to be aware of the new ‘notice-and-access’ system and to opt-out of digital access if they prefer to receive benefit statements and retirement plan rules on paper.”