The circular economy is the concept that, similar to nature, we should use and reuse materials by seeking to design out waste. Finding ways to maximize our materials for multiple use and minimal resource demand will reduce our environmental impact. Long before the term circular economy was coined, the paper industry had already created a circular system that permits for paper fibers to be recycled for multiple uses into a variety of new products. Learn more about the benefits of recycled paperboard:
- Recycled paper saves energy
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling one ton of paper saves - Recycled paper saves water
The U.S. EPA estimates one ton of recycled paper saves 7,000 gallons of water. - Recycled paper reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions
One ton of recycled paper saves, on average, one metric ton of carbon equivalent (MTCE). - Recycled paper reduces landfill space
By recycling one ton of paper, we can save an average 3.3 cubic tons of waste sent to the landfill. - Recycled paper creates jobs
Paper has the highest rate of recycling of all materials in the U.S. According to the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA), in 2021, 68% of all paper sold in the US market was recycled. This green industry creates well-paying local jobs. - Recycled paper provides material efficiency
For every ton of paper that is recycled, an average of 17 trees continue to grow. More trees help reduce carbon emissions and ensure we are utilizing our natural resources for their highest and best use.
Want to learn more how your decision to purchase recycled paperboard could reduce environmental impacts? Contact us or use the Environmental Paper Network Calculator to evaluate the estimated savings of using recycled paperboard.
Sources:
https://education.seattlepi.com/advantages-recycling-paper-3440.html
