Finding and explaining green or eco-friendly papers can get confusing. Is recycled paper really the stuff you put in your blue box (no)? What are alternative fibers? Here is a quick overview of environmentally-friendly paper.

Recycled Paper

Most paper has recycled content, and that is good, but the recycled content is generally pre-consumer waste. This comes from the trimming during the  manufacturing process or after the printing process. Recycled paper can have virgin fiber (wood that has never been used), pre-consumer waste and post-consumer waste.

Post Consumer Waste, PCW or Post-Consumer Recycled Paper

This paper comes from used paper - newspapers that you recycle, paper from the laser printer or photocopier in the office and so on. This paper is saved from the trash and recycled into paper again. While it’s good to keep paper out of landfills, there is a considerable amount of energy and chemicals used to de-ink and reclaim this paper. Environmentalists consider PCW to be greener than recycled paper. Look for the PCW percentage when buying or ordering paper.

Alternative Fibers

Alternative fibers can include hemp, bamboo, kenaf and straw. The production of this paper is still in its early stages in North America and can be hard to find. Generally, this paper is made from sustainable, non-tree sources (bamboo can grow 3 feet per day).

Look for Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper

The Forest Stewardship Council is an international organization promoting responsible forestry practices, and they certify papers that have been produced responsibly. FSC Canada has a good guide to green paper.

There are many options for an eco-friendly approach to wedding invitations (including e-vites, but that’s another post…). Talk to your printer or graphic designer about paper options.