Why Using Recycled Paper Products Matter
The utilization of recycled paper products emerged in the 80s and has grown to become one of the most sustainable ways to maintain forest trees and climate as per the EPA’s statistical report from the AF&PA (American Forest & Paper Association).
Therefore, with the increase in the use of recycled paper products, many industries have been encouraged to take up the initiative and have manufactured raw material fiber from recovered paper in unique ways. Now, with the environmental movement taking off year after year since the 70s, citizens can participate by purchasing 100% recycled paper products to replace virgin fiber paper or reusing papers laying around the home.
What To Do with Recyclable Paper
Besides coated, treated, or paper with food waste, most types of paper around the home can be recycled. The largest source of recyclable paper of note in homes is office paper, handwriting paper, cardboard, magazines, newspapers, and mail. All of the previous are great for reuse for the following:
- Crafts
- Social events
- Packing material
- Stain protection
- Compost
For other unique ways, try it as shelf lining, cat litter box liners, and even book covers.
For how to make recycled paper yourself, take your used paper around the home, be it magazines or newspapers, and cut or tear them into small pieces, about 1×1 inches. Then soak them in a bowl of water. This can take a day or just 3 hours if you blend the paper and water in between.
Finally, using a net, allow the paper mache to settle evenly on the surface of the net without bending it, set the entire thing aside face down, soak up any excess water, and peel off the net, then allow to dry for 1 day.
If you’re not the DIY type, you can also find a variety of unique recycled paper products that you can’t find in many stores, and possibly in eco friendly packaging. The only question is what type of recycled paper products will fit your needs.
Classic White Recycled Paper
Traditional white paper is the most popular form of paper and recycled paper products as it is used in many industries, businesses, schools, and for personal use at home. As explained above, recycled paper sheets are made by mixing reused paper with water. Industrially, it is done with a sort of blender to turn it into fibers which are then washed and refined to create a paper product that’s as good as non-recycled paper.
This type of paper can be 100% recycled, 100% recyclable, and can be bought in the highest quantities available due to the general demand. Used as printing paper, it comes in sizes fit for mailing of around 8×11 inches and, if desired, can come in sustainable packaging. Often this is a factor that is overlooked and directly counters the point of recycling and greener paper production as the entire product is not eco-friendly.
Kraft Brown Bag Envelopes
Recycled paper products made with brown paper are chemically processed, which makes for a stronger product. And unlike white paper it’s not bleached, making it the eco-friendlier choice. This is kraft, a specific type of brown paper, which makes it even more durable.
Brown bag envelopes come in different sizes and can be purchased in bulk and different dimensions. It is, however, not the lightest form of an envelope, therefore it may take on additional postage. Brown paper products are not the best for print or handwriting like white paper which makes brown bag envelopes perfect, but the rustic design and free.
Check the envelope size chart to discover whether your inserts will fit into the envelope and other factors of import including size and thickness.
Crush Cardstock
Crush is a unique eco-friendly and versatile choice and is made from organic by-products and other recyclables with the purpose of it being sold for creative reuse, which is why cardstock in particular suits this durable paper. And through the power of upcycling, no two sheets are the same: Crush has a flecked appearance that gives projects depth and a certain sophistication. It reduces the carbon footprint by 15%, as well.
Crush can be purchased in bulk to bring an edge to promotional projects for businesses or for individuals wanting to make something personalized for familial events like baby showers, weddings, or birthdays. You can find cardstock that has that unique recycled paper texture similar to Crush’s online to be purchased in multiple forms, sizes, and in a variety of refined colors like olive, blue lavender, and white grape to suit your needs.
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