Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Historically, paper production has been considered a dirty process that can negatively
impact the environment at numerous points. However, in the last twenty years, govern-
mental regulations, pressure from consumer and community groups, as well as invest-
ment by the industry itself has resulted in significant improvements to the environmental
performance of many paper companies. Currently, areas of concern include water use,
disposal of waste, energy sourcing, emissions, and the use of chlorine in paper produc-
tion. Each mill deals with these issues differently and, in some cases, governmental
regulations may prohibit the use of elemental chlorine and require mills to minimize any
air and water pollution that is generated during paper production. However, energy conser-
vation, sourcing from renewable sources, and the disposal of waste are rarely regulated.
As energy has become more expensive, most mills have put conservation plans into
place both for the sake of the bottom line and to minimize impact on the environment.
Similarly, many mills have found ways to dispose of waste that include repurposing and
reuse.
PAPER
PRODUCTION
TARGET AREAS
FSC/
RECYCLED
PULP FOR
PRODUCTION
ELEMENTAL
OR TOTALLY
CHLORINE
FREE
sourcing of
reneWaBle
energy
AIR &
WATER SAFE
PRODUCTION
safe &
eQuitaBle
WorK
conditions
Keeping up with all of the issues associated with paper production may be unrealistic
for most designers, but paper companies do provide spec sheets that make it possible
to compare one product with another. Printers may also provide information and advice
about which companies produce products that have the least environmental impact.
Every sheet of paper that is recycled prolongs the use of this highly disposable material
and keeps material out of overflowing landfills. There has been some controversy about
the benefits of recycling because of several negative environmental impacts associated
with the de-inking of paper. However, most environmental organizations and independent
studies conclude that the benefits of recycling outweigh the negatives.
Unfortunately, the labeling of paper containing recycled content varies tremendously and
there are no formal regulations on what percentage of reclaimed material a sheet must
contain in order to be called recycled. Therefore, it falls on the shoulders of consumers
and distributors to make sense of confusing and sometimes misleading labeling.
When evaluating reclaimed paper, the most important distinction to make is between
preconsumer and postconsumer waste.
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