Sappi Fine Paper North America director of sustainable development discusses paper recycling issues [From the web]

FORT COLLINS, CO, Sept. 20, 2011 (Viewpoint) - Despite the fact that paper products with recycled content have been around nearly forever, there is still much confusion regarding basic definitions. For some of us, recent changes in the FSC labeling guidelines have added an extra layer of confusion.

First, let's consider the difference between recovery and recycling. While these terms often get used interchangeably there is a difference. Recovery speaks to keeping products out of landfills. Once collected, recovered paper can be either recycled or incinerated.

Recycling in its most basic sense refers to a process in which used materials are turned into new materials. Paper is typically recycled into new paper products but can also be used for other applications like insulation and wall board.

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

Environmental Leader - Defining Recycled Content in Paper Products

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