Recycled
It takes less energy to make new paper from recycled paper and it also keeps more of our trees from being cut down. Recycled paper fiber can be sourced from two types of waste. Pre-consumer waste fiber is recovered from the manufacturing process and includes paper mill scraps, offcuts, trimmings, unsold magazines, etc. Post-consumer waste (PCW) comes from paper that has been used by consumers and was recycled instead of being sent to a landfill.

Tree-Free
Tree-Free paper is another way to produce paper with minimal environmental impact. There are many speciality papers made from agricultural residues (husk and straws left in the fields after harvesting of the main crop) and textile waste such as cotton, linen and rope. Fiber crops (hemp, jute, kenaf and flax) and wild plants (wild grasses, sisal and bamboo) can also be used. Plant-fiber papers tend to be more durable than wood fiber papers. Kenaf in particular contains less lignin than trees, requires fewer chemicals, and is naturally acid-free.

Chlorine Free
Chlorine is used to to remove lignin which causes yellowing and gives paper its white appearance. Totally Chlorine-free (TCF) paper is unbleached or has been processed without the use of chlorine. The use of any type chlorine produces extremely toxic compounds that cause environmental damage when released into waterways. Oxygen, ozone, and hydrogen peroxide are bleaching alternatives to chlorine and chlorine derivatives.

Uncoated
The clay that gives coated paper its smooth, shiny surface also makes it harder to recycle. During the recycling process, up to 40% less fiber can be extracted from coated paper. So choose the natural feel of uncoated paper or select a supercalendered paper, which has been pressed to create a smoother surface.

To ensure you are making an earth-friendly choice, look for papers certified by Rainforest Alliance, Green-e, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Green Seal or Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).