There is a clear environmental benefit in using recovered fiber instead of virgin fiber for publication-grade paper, according to a recent study backed by National Geographic, Green America and a number of NGO stakeholders.
While the results might seem intuitive, many in the magazine and paper industries continue to question the environmental benefits of using recycled fiber in publication-grade paper, the announcement says.
The study found there is a benefit in using recycled fiber paper in all 14 of the environmental impact categories deemed most relevant, including GHG emissions equivalence, carcinogenicity, wood use and other elements. The study also took into consideration the amount of energy and fuel mix used in pulping, the environmental impact characterization method used and the process for allocating recycling benefits.
“This study confirms that the best way for publishers to reduce the environmental impact associated with the paper they buy is to increase recycled content,” said Darby Hoover, senior resource specialist, Natural Resources Defense Council. “We hope that National Geographic, as one of the nation’s top producers of nature publications, takes immediate steps to incorporate the highest recycled content into their magazine and other paper purchases, and sets goals for continued improvement in its paper attributes over time.”
As a result, National Geographic says it will explore recycled paper options for its publications. A number of publications are already doing this, including Fast Company, Audubon, YES! and Ranger Rick.
“We are very glad that National Geographic is using the results of the study to prioritize recycled paper use in their magazines,” says Frank Locantore, director of the Green America Better Paper Project. “Many other large magazines and smaller periodicals can feel confident about the substantial environmental benefits if they begin using recycled paper in their magazines.”
The production of magazine paper in the U.S. emits the equivalent of the annual GHG emissions of over 1.5 million cars, according to the report.
Harvesting trees for virgin pulp also contributes to deforestation, which has been identified as a major driver of climate change. Brian McFarland’s recent book, REDD+ and Business Sustainability, draws attention to this mounting ecological crisis and how businesses can not only help avert it, but also profit.
Get the latest insights, trends, and innovations to help position yourself at the forefront of sustainable business leadership—delivered straight to your inbox.
Founder & Principal Consultant, Hower Impact
Mike Hower is the founder of Hower Impact — a boutique consultancy delivering best-in-class strategic communication advisory and support for corporate sustainability, ESG and climate tech.
Published Mar 20, 2013 9pm EDT / 6pm PDT / 1am GMT / 2am CET