6th October 2023
Welcome to a world where every page tells a story of environmental stewardship and conscious living. At Rescript, we believe that even the simplest of choices can create a ripple effect, leading to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
Our mission? To revolutionise the way we perceive and use paper. In this blog post, we embark on an enlightening journey, exploring the fascinating process of crafting 100% recycled paper by addressing essential questions about recycling, FSC certification, and the growth of the paper recycling industry in India. Join us in discovering the beauty and potential of recycled paper - a vital step towards a greener, cleaner planet.
How is 100% recycled paper made?
100% recycled paper is made from post-consumer waste paper. The process involves collecting used paper products, sorting and cleaning them to remove contaminants like staples or plastic, breaking the paper down into fibres, and then re-pulping these fibres to create new paper. The resulting pulp is then used to make a variety of paper products, maintaining a commitment to using entirely recycled material.
What is the main disadvantage to recycling paper?
One major disadvantage of recycling paper is that the process can cause a reduction in fibre length, which affects the quality of the recycled paper. Additionally, the recycling process requires energy and resources, and not all paper can be recycled due to contamination or the presence of non-recyclable materials.
How much paper is recycled in India?
India's paper recycling rate is low, with only 25-28% of waste paper being recycled. This is due to a lack of waste collection and segregation systems, and a lack of awareness about the importance of recycling.
However, there is a growing awareness of the need for paper recycling in India, and the government and businesses are taking steps to promote it. By increasing paper recycling rates, India can reduce its reliance on virgin paper production, conserve natural resources, and reduce its environmental impact.
Can recycled paper be FSC certified?
Yes, recycled paper can be FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. FSC certification can be obtained for products made from recycled materials, ensuring that the recycled paper comes from responsible and sustainable sources, aligning with FSC's standards for environmental and social responsibility.
How big is the Indian paper recycling industry?
The Indian paper recycling industry is estimated to be worth around ?10,000 crore (US$1.2 billion) and is growing rapidly. This is due to increasing awareness about sustainability, government initiatives to promote paper recycling, and growing demand for recycled paper products from both domestic and international markets.
Does paper lose quality when recycled?
Yes, paper can lose some quality during the recycling process. The fibre length tends to shorten with each recycling cycle, affecting the strength and durability of the paper. However, advancements in technology and improved recycling processes have helped minimise this quality loss, allowing for the production of high-quality recycled paper.
What paper cannot be recycled?
Some types of paper cannot be recycled, including:
Contaminated paper: Paper contaminated with food, oils, or other substances.
Waxed or laminated paper: Paper coated with wax or plastic (e.g., glossy magazines).
Thermal paper: Paper used for receipts, as it contains a special coating that is hard to recycle.
Sticky notes and tape: Paper with adhesives or non-paper elements like tape.
Carbon paper: Paper with a carbon coating used for making duplicates.
Paper with heavy dyes: Paper with excessive ink or heavy dyes that can be difficult to recycle.
Promoting the use of 100% recycled paper products helps reduce the demand for virgin paper, conserving natural resources and mitigating environmental impact.
Get started on your sustainability journey with Rescript’s 100% recycled paper stationery!
