By Zem Joaquin, ecofabulous.com
'Tis the season to get informed. When shopping for papers there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, regarding recycled content - always check out the percentage: a label that reads "30% recycled, 20% post-consumer waste" means 70% virgin wood cut down from forests, 20% post-consumer waste and 10% post-industrial waste - a little play on words to make you think they're more eco than they actually are (look for 100%, if possible). Processed Chlorine Free (PCF) paper is also key. Paper mills that use chlorine for bleaching produce chlorinated organic compounds such as highly toxic dioxins which cause a host of health and environmental problems.
Next you want to consider the dyes being used. Conventional dyes that are petroleum-based emit harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. Look for vegetable-based dyes, such as soy that has been found to emit 82% less VOCs. They are also considerably easier to remove from paper during the de-inking phase of recycling.
Other things to look for are the sustainable practices a company engages in (hopefully): like where do they get their power? Do they practice fair trade? Do they buy their materials locally? At the end of the day, though, we want paper products that we love, that are simply beautiful.
One company to check out is Fish Lips Paper Designs. Made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper that is Processed Chlorine Free and printed entirely with soy inks (they also use Green-e certified wind power) their high-quality wrapping papers don't skimp on cool at all. The "one love" is perfect for pets and what gent wouldn't love a gift wrapped in the "dirty martini" paper?
Their holiday line can also help green a notoriously wasteful time of year; "don't be a flake" is great for Christmas and Hanukkah alike, but I'm not so sure about Kwanzaa. Of course you could try my favorite technique - cut out pages of magazines that are befitting of the recipient. My super-stylish sister gets fashion magazine picks, while my dad gets old golf images. Use whatever you have or ask a friend their old books.
Zem Joaquin
ecofabulous.com
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