Hi all,

I have just added two more information articles on paper production and paper recycling.

Paper Production

Until the mid 19th century paper was produced mostly from recycled cotton cloth, linen or hemp fibers. With the increased demands of the Industrial Revolution and widespread desire for more books and writing materials, a cheaper alternative was sought for and found with wood pulp. A financially viable mechanical pulping machine was developed in Germany in the 1840’s and by the turn of the twentieth century various chemical means to pulp wood into paper fibers was developed. [...]

Benefits of Recycling Paper

Each year, the people of the United States uses no less than eighty-six million tons of paper, of which this country recycles only about nineteen million tons of this waste paper. If we were to recycle all of the remaining paper, we could recycle up to forty-six million tons. Recycling those forty-six million tons could save at least seven hundred eighty six million trees, or at least several forests worth. This would save the habitats of many endangered species.[...]

Hi all,

Sorry but I have a mini rant coming on!  I have just received an invoice from a supplier today who saw fit to print the invoice on not one but 6 individual bits of paper.  The service that we purchased was just the same in each of the 6 cases - just accessed at different times during one day.  Now why oh why could that not all have been combined on the one page?!  Or even better why not email the invoice electronically.

We must begin putting pressure on businesses to think about the environmental impact of their practices.  I for one will certainly be writing an email to the company in question outlining my concerns.  I would encourage you to do similar if you come across similar instances.