5 Myths About Recycled Paper

Uncover the truths behind recycled paper, debunking myths about quality, cost, and environmental impact while highlighting its many benefits.

Recycled paper is often misunderstood. Many people think it’s lower quality, more expensive, or harder to use. But here’s the truth:

  • Quality: Modern recycled paper matches virgin paper in brightness, smoothness, and durability.
  • Cost: Buying recycled paper in bulk can be as affordable as virgin paper.
  • Environment: Recycling reduces waste, saves water, and lowers energy use.
  • Options: Recycled paper comes in various grades and finishes, including 30%, 50%, and 100% post-consumer waste content.
  • Performance: High-quality recycled paper works seamlessly with printers and doesn’t cause more paper jams.

Quick Tip: Choose paper with at least 30% post-consumer recycled content for a balance of performance and eco-friendliness.

Recycled paper is a practical, sustainable choice for businesses and individuals alike. Ready to make the switch? Keep reading to learn more.

The Surprising Truth: Paper Recycling and the Misconception …

1. Quality Issues in Recycled Paper

There’s a common misconception that recycled paper doesn’t measure up to virgin paper in quality. However, modern processes like deinking, bleaching, and finishing ensure recycled paper matches virgin stock in brightness, opacity, smoothness, and durability. In fact, recycled paper works perfectly for most printing needs.

Up next, we’ll dive into the cost comparison between recycled and virgin paper to address the next myth.

2. Cost Comparison with Virgin Paper

Recycled paper isn’t necessarily pricier than virgin paper. Costs are influenced by factors like the supply and demand for recovered fiber, the technology used in paper production, and the size of your order. When purchased in bulk, recycled paper can often be just as affordable – or even cheaper – than virgin paper. To get a clear picture, request quotes based on your usual order size and delivery needs.

Next, let’s take a closer look at how recycled paper affects the environment.

3. Environmental Impact of Paper Recycling

Myth 3: Recycled paper has minimal impact on the environment.

Recycling paper helps conserve resources and reduces environmental strain. By reprocessing used fibers, the need for virgin pulp is minimized, water usage is cut, and energy consumption drops significantly.

Modern paper mills have adopted practices like reusing process water and using energy-efficient equipment. These changes have helped lower their carbon footprint and reduce air and water pollution.

Here are some key outcomes of paper recycling:

  • Less waste sent to landfills
  • Protection of forest ecosystems
  • Reduced water consumption during paper production
  • Lower emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants
  • Better management of natural resources

Next, we’ll explore paper options and availability to challenge Myth 4.

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4. Paper Options and Availability

When it comes to recycled paper, there are several grades available to suit various printing needs. These include:

  • 30% post-consumer waste (PCW)
  • 50% PCW
  • 100% PCW

These papers come in finishes like uncoated or silk, with brightness levels typically ranging from 80 to 92 ISO. These options let you find the right balance between appearance, performance, and cost.

At Miro Printing & Graphics Inc., standard recycled stocks (30% and 50% PCW) are available for same-day printing. For 100% PCW options, expect a lead time of 2–3 business days for special orders. Minimum order quantities start at 250 sheets for digital printing and 500 sheets for offset printing. Opting for readily available, high-PCW papers is a simple way to make a positive environmental impact.

Up next, we’ll look at how recycled paper performs in different printers and address common concerns about paper jams.

5. Printer Performance and Paper Jams

Recycled paper that meets industry standards works just as well on both digital and offset presses without causing more paper jams. At Miro Printing & Graphics Inc., we’ve consistently seen high-quality recycled paper perform smoothly across our equipment.

Here’s what matters most: weight, moisture level, and surface smoothness. These factors play a big role in ensuring reliable performance.

To minimize paper jams:

  • Store paper in a dry environment.
  • Fan the sheets before loading them into the printer.
  • Adjust printer settings to match the paper’s weight.
  • Use your paper sooner rather than later to maintain its quality.

If you’re unsure which recycled paper works best with your printer, reach out to Miro Printing & Graphics Inc. for tailored recommendations.

Up next, check out our quick Myths vs. Reality guide.

Myths vs. Reality: Quick Reference

Here’s a clear breakdown of common misconceptions about recycled paper and the actual facts:

Myth Fact
Recycled paper is lower quality and looks grayish Modern recycled paper matches the brightness and texture of virgin-fiber paper.
Recycled paper is much more expensive Prices for bulk recycled paper are now comparable to virgin paper.
Recycling paper uses more energy than making new paper Recycling consumes less energy and produces fewer emissions than creating virgin paper.
Recycled paper comes in limited options You can find recycled paper in a wide variety of weights, finishes, and content levels.
Recycled paper causes more printer jams When it meets industry standards for moisture and thickness, recycled paper performs just as well as virgin paper.

Tip: For a great balance of performance and eco-friendliness, go with paper that contains 30% post-consumer recycled content.

Up next, let’s dive into the main benefits of choosing recycled paper.

Benefits of Recycled Paper Use

Using recycled paper helps protect forests, reduces waste, and lowers water use, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions compared to paper made from new fibers. Opting for recycled paper demonstrates your organization’s dedication to reducing its impact on the environment.

Next Steps

Now that you know the advantages of using recycled paper, it’s time to take action on your printing project.

Miro Printing & Graphics Inc. can help you choose the best recycled paper options to suit your project needs. Their team works closely with you to ensure your goals are met, delivering high-quality results while staying within your budget.

Put what you’ve learned about quality, cost savings, and environmental responsibility into practice with your next print order.

Get started today:

  • Reach out to Miro Printing & Graphics Inc. at 201-439-9686 or mikem@miroprinting.com to schedule a consultation and get a custom quote.

"Great customer service that we didn’t get with our old online printer. Attention to detail is what makes the difference!" – Mike B. [2]

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