Post
by EarthCurrent » Thu Jun 26, 2003 9:49 pm
Recycling paper isn't that great a solution, because there isn't a strong market for it. In fact, the recycled paper market is currently over supplied. The quality of paper declines over each generation of recycling, meaning that under usual circumstances the paper ends up in the trash.
It is better to cut back on paper usage than to encourage people to recycle. The Three Rs of conservation listed in order of importance: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Additionally, recycled newspaper still isn't good for much. It can be used to a certain percentage in cardboard and pressboard, and it can also be shredded for mulch, or home insulation for use in arid regions, but there still aren't enough applications or interest from the general public to take care of the supply.