Facts About Computer Paper

Computer paper is part of a larger category of paper known as high-grade paper, which also includes:

• Ledger paper
• Envelopes
• Copy paper
• Notebook paper

Recycles Well

Most computer paper used by individuals today is high grade, meaning that it is good quality paper. Compare, for example, the paper you print with to the lower-grade paper that many companies use to print their invoices in triplicate (looks like phone book paper). Higher quality paper means that it is more valuable to paper companies that recycle and that it will tolerate more cycles before becoming unusable. High-grade computer paper can be recycled five to seven times before it is no longer reusable.

Commercially, many large companies sell their computer paper to firms that recycle and then sell it to paper companies, or to paper companies themselves. Because of the energy, and therefore money, saved, there is actually a great deal of demand for used high-grade paper.

Of course, as individuals, we don’t normally generate enough waste to sell commercially. Still, that shouldn’t prevent you from responsibly recycling your computer paper. Check with your local municipality to see if computer paper is accepted for curbside recycling pickup or if there is a paper drop-off recycling program. You can also use Earth 911′s recycling locator to find a paper recycler near you.