Resources

Investing in and improving paper recycling has been an industry priority for decades. Download AF&PA's handout explaining our efforts to capture even more paper from the waste stream for recycling. 

Download AF&PA's handout explaining the 2023 paper and cardboard recycling rates.

Download our handout that explains:

• The definition of Extended Producer Responsibility
• The role of paper in EPR programs  
• Our industry’s investment to improve paper recycling
• Our recommendation for EPR programs

Before an EPR program is considered, states need to do a needs assessment. Download our handout explaining the benefits of conducting a needs assessment to understand the current state of waste and recycling systems. 

In 2023, nearly half of recycled paper went into making containerboard — the material used to make cardboard boxes.

In 2023, the paper recycling rate was 65% - 69%. 

The 2023 cardboard recycling rate was 71% - 76%.

Paper recycling is a success. In 2023, the paper recycling rate was 65-69% and the cardboard recycling rate was 71-76%.

We support what the EU is trying to achieve with their anti-deforestation law (EUDR). The U.S. pulp and paper industry is not linked to global deforestation and forest degradation. However, EUDR imposes some unachievable requirements that create significant technical barriers, which risks trade. This handout explains key things to know about how EUDR affects the U.S. pulp and paper industry. 

Have you ever wondered what makes your tissue soft and white? Share the facts about bleaching agents used in bathroom tissue and paper towel manufacturing by downloading this one-pager to communicate about the modern bleaching process and bleaching process definitions.

Always think before you shred. Shredded paper is less likely to be recycled than sheets of paper because the small shreds of paper can get lost in collection and processing. The smaller the paper is, the less likely it is to get recycled. A good rule of thumb is to only shred paper containing sensitive information.

In a member survey, AF&PA members confirmed paper padded mailers are recycled every day at paper mills across the country. We encourage local communities to update their guidelines.