Sappi Fine Paper North America director discusses US paper recovery rate [From the web]

FORT COLLINS, CO, Oct. 3, 2011 (Viewpoint) - The American Forest and Paper Association recently announced a set of industry wide sustainability goals under the banner of "Better Practices, Better Planet 2020." Collectively we aim to exceed 70% recovery for paper. The US paper industry has a great track record for recovery. There are ample statistics that show paper is recovered and recycled at rates far higher than other materials. And the AF&PA proudly touts that we not only achieved, but exceeded the previous 60% target three years ahead of schedule. So why stop at 70%? Why not 100%? In some ways the answer is simple. We don't target 100% because it is an unattainable goal based on the way that we track performance.

The recovery rate is measured based across all paper types. And there are many types of paper that simply won't be recovered. Consider tissue and towel. I don't know what you use paper towels for, but mine usually come out when the cat has been ill and that towel is simply not going in my recycling bin. There are also many other applications that are generally considered "disposable" - mostly sanitary and food applications. Companies like Starbucks are working very hard to find a solution for poly-coated cup stock - but for now they are not getting recycled en masse.

Environmental Leader - Why Can't We Reach 100% Paper Recovery Rates?

By Laura M. Thompson, PhD, Director of Sustainable Development, Sappi Fine Paper North America

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