Papermaking in the U.S. Today
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For members of the Paper Recycling Coalition, recycling isn't just a feel-good activity or public relations stunt—it is a core business activity that's integral to our success. We are true recyclers—the people who take used materials and turn them into something new, the environmentally preferable product, 100% recycled paperboard.
In 2002, the paper industry recovered more than 47.6 million tons of paper for recycling. That's 48% of the paper available for recycling. United States exports of recovered paper have been growing rapidly, with much of the incremental demand coming from China. In order to recover sufficient paper to meet domestic needs and expanding export demand, the paper industry has set a goal of recovering 55% of all paper and paperboard consumed in the U.S. by 2012
Recycling collection program success is strongest for newspapers with a recycling rate of 78.4%, closely followed by old corrugated containers at 75%. We use these materials to make 100% recycled paperboard. The paper industry as a whole also relies heavily on recovered fiber as a raw material. In fact, in 2001, 36.8% of the fiber used at U.S. paper mills was recovered fiber, up from 25% in 1988.
Learn more about the environmental and economic benefits of 100% recycled paperboard and the paper industry.
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Our Members Are the Leaders of Their Industry
The six companies that form the Paper Recycling Coalition have not only committed to producing high-quality 100% recycled paper products for their customers, but they have also committed to protecting our shared environment and natural resources. To learn more about our members and their role in today's 100% recycled paperboard industry, visit the “About the PRC” page.
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