Resources

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.

AF&PA’s Board of Directors outlined advocacy priorities the association will pursue to help ensure the paper and wood products industry’s sustainability success and economic impact in 2022.

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.

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

In 2020, AF&PA member pulp and paper mills decreased water use (per ton of product) by 8.3%, from the 2005 baseline year. This marks significant progress towards our Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 sustainability goal to reduce water use at member pulp and paper mills by 12% between 2005 and 2020.

In 2020, AF&PA member companies’ recordable incidence rate was 30% lower than the 2006 baseline. This surpasses our goal to reduce the incidence rate by 25% from 2006 to 2020.