Brook Design Services

Overview: Sustainable Paper Options

Recycled papers are considered less harmful to the environment due to reduction of impact compared to manufacturing virgin paper. Reduced tree harvesting, conserves water, reduced energy use and pollution. A wide variety of options exist including carbonless papers.

In general, any paper designated as “recycled” must contain at least 30% pre-consumer and/or post-consumer waste (PCW) fibers.

Using 100% PCW papers compared to virgin fibers reduces these negative aspects (by percentage): Greenhouse Gas Emissions (47%), Total Energy Consumption (27%), Particulate Emissions (28%), Solid Waste (54%) and Wastewater (33%). Source: National Envelope Co.

FSC Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
The FSC is probably the most recognized international “sustainable forest products” NPO organization, Their mission is to promote responsible management of the world’s forests. Including: Elimination of habitat destruction, water pollution, displacement of indigenous people and wildlife. FSC certification has strong recognition as a credible program promoting the responsible use of earth’s resources. Many FSC certified papers are also certified by the Rainforest Alliance.

PEFC and SFI certified papers.
While recovered fiber is an attractive choice, it usually only makes up a percentage of any paper product. Sustainable forestry certifications complete the equation by confirming the rest of the wood fiber is from a responsible source. These two NPO organizations are similar to the FSC. PEFC stands for Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification and SFI represents Sustainable Forestry Initiative.

Green Seal Certified papers.
Green Seal is an organization which works with manufacturers, industry, purchasers and governments at all levels to “green” the production and purchasing chain. Papers must contain at least 30% post-consumer waste or be manufactured chlorine-free. Also the mill’s processes, including packaging, must be environmentally preferable.

Process Chlorine Free (PCF) papers.
Certified by the Chlorine Free Products Association (CFPA) these papers are considered less harmful due to the reduction of impacts associated with chorine and related compounds. This significantly reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing. Paper list online, see link above.

Carbon Neutral and Wind Power options.
Select mills offer these features on certain papers by using Wind Power or buying Carbon Credits.

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