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It’s Okay to Use Paper: No Really!
Some folks seem to have a perception in the world that if you’re environmentally conscious, you must avoid paper products at all costs.
This isn’t true! In fact, there are many reasons why using paper is actually better for the environment than some of the alternatives. In this article, we will discuss some of those reasons and show that it’s okay to use paper after all.
Trees are the Most Renewable Resource on the Planet
One of the most common arguments against paper is that it comes from trees. While it’s true that paper does come from trees, what many people don’t know is that forestry is one of the most sustainable industries in the world.
Trees are a renewable resource, meaning they can be regrown after they are harvested. In fact, forests cover 30% of the earth’s surface and produce 20% of its oxygen (source). That means that forestry is not only sustainable, but it’s actually vital to our planet’s survival.
When managed correctly, forests can provide an ongoing source of paper without damaging the environment. In fact, using paper products helps to support these important ecosystems!
You Can Recycle Paper
Another common argument against paper is that it can’t be recycled. While it’s true that not all paper can be recycled, a lot of it can!
In fact, over half of all paper products in the United States are recycled each year (source). That includes things like office paper, newspapers, and cardboard.
Recycling paper saves energy, conserves resources, and cuts down on pollution. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to be more environmentally friendly.
It’s Easy to Make Paper
One of the reasons that paper gets a bad rap is because people think it’s hard to make. They assume that it takes a lot of energy and resources to produce paper products.
The truth is, it’s actually quite easy to make paper. In fact, all you need are some basic materials like water, cellulose fibers, and a screen.
You can even make paper at home with things you probably already have around the house! Check out this tutorial to learn how.
Paper Products Are Biodegradable
When you’re finished using a paper product, what do you do with it? If you’re like most people, you probably just throw it away.
While it’s true that paper products do end up in landfills, they are actually biodegradable. That means that they will eventually break down and decompose.
In contrast, many of the alternatives to paper are not biodegradable. This includes things like plastic and Styrofoam. These materials can take hundreds or even thousands of years to decompose (source).
So when you’re finished with your paper products, don’t be afraid to throw them away. They’ll eventually break down and won’t harm the environment.
Paper Products Are Compostable
Another great thing about paper is that it’s compostable. That means it can be turned into fertilizer for plants!
Composting is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment. It’s one of the simplest things you can do to make a difference.
Plus, it’s really easy to compost paper products. You can do it at home with a simple compost bin, or there are even commercial composting services available in some areas.
Paper products are an important part of our everyday lives. They’re recyclable, compostable, and renewable. That means they’re actually good for the environment! So next time you need to use paper, don’t feel guilty about it. It’s okay! Really!
Buy Top-Notch Paper Products from Allied Envelope
Now that you know all the reasons why paper is actually good for the environment, you can feel confident using it in your everyday life.
And when you need top-quality paper products, there’s only one place to go: Allied Envelope. We offer a wide variety of paper products, from envelopes to business cards.
Plus, we use environmentally friendly practices throughout our entire operation. That means we’re doing our part to help the planet, just like you.