Recycled Paper Products Info by Green Line Paper

10 Easy Tips for Reducing Your Daily Paper Waste

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 06:47:00 +0000

People often forget how often they encounter paper and paper products during the day—this includes books, newspapers, toilet paper, cereal boxes, the labels on water bottles, catalogs, junk mail, money, parking tickets, receipts, napkins, and the list goes on. Consuming more than any other country per capita, the average American uses more than 700 lbs of paper per year.

The following are a few important facts about the paper companies and the paper industry you should take into consideration before buying or using any paper products.

Did you know that forests store approximately half of the earth’s “terrestrial carbon”? These carbon rich forests counter the pollution that causes global warming.

Unfortunately, half of the earth’s existing forests have been used up, cleared, or burned—more than half of what’s left is severely degraded.

Each year, a massive amount of wood is harvested for consumption—approximately 40% of this wood is used for papermaking.

Used paper makes up approximately 25% of all landfill waste.

Paper companies in the United States (and the paper industry) are the 4th largest contributor of harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

If office paper use was reduced by 10%, approximately 1.5 million tons of greenhouse gases could be prevented. That’s equivalent to the emissions of 280,000 cars.

Why choose recycle paper? Compared to processing virgin wood, recycled paper uses 45% less energy, 40% less greenhouse gas emissions, 40% less particulate emissions, 50% less solid waste, 50% less wastewater, and no natural resources or wood.

In previous years, less than half the amount of used office paper (43%) was recycled.

The following are easy tips for saving or reusing paper brought to you by a recycled paper company.

1. Be a “post-consumer” consumer—buy recycled paper, recycle paper products (i.e. toilet paper, paper towels) and avoid purchasing any goods or products made from virgin wood.

2. Don’t buy paper table napkins—cloth is a more environmentally friendly choice.

3. Don’t use Styrofoam peanuts for packaging.Shred used office paper and use that as an alternative.

4. Use dish towels regularly, not paper towels.

5. Change your computer settings before printing any documents—print to both sides to save paper.

6. Paying bills online is not only more convenient, it saves paper. Take advantage of your car insurance, cable company, rent, health insurance, and other “ecobill” options.

7. If you bring your lunch to work in a paper bag, reuse it!Better yet, opt for a cloth bag you can reuse and wash time and time again.

8. If you have a pooch, purchase biodegradable doggie bags.

9. Buy all desk planners, wall calendars, and paper office supplies from a recycled paper company.

10. Paper or plastic? Say no to both at the grocery store. Purchase a reusable cloth bag and use that for carrying groceries home.

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Greenline Paper Company, America’s green office supply store. Visit our website for more information on environmentally friendly office supplies, paper company products, and recycle paper at Greenlinepaper.com.

Green Holiday Gift Ideas: 5 Inexpensive, Creative, and Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas for Friends and Family

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:24:00 +0000

The following holiday gift ideas are not only thoughtful, they’re quality, inexpensive, and kind to the environment. This article serves as a guide for eco-friendly holiday gift ideas for those who like to give and receive eco-friendly holiday cheer. Consider these personal products for your family, friends, co-workers; they’re quality , affordable, and absolutely environmentally friendly and green.

Lemongrass Zen Soap for the home and office: We recommend Lemongrass Zen soap, a beautiful smelling product from Vermont soapworks. This organic foaming hand soap is made with natural oils and has never been tested on animals, nor contains any animal products—safe and nontoxic for children and all living things (with the exception of germs). No propellants, no chemicals, and this gift is USDA approved and certified organic. Makes a perfect gift for friends, co-workers, and an all around great household soap.

Wrap-N-Mat Reusable Sandwich Bags are a fantastic product and an even better alternative to carrying lunch to school in recycle paper bags or recycled containers. Perfect for children and adults who bring lunch to work, these reusable sandwich bags are machine washable and serve as a placemat when opened—bread and sandwiches are kept fresh, and your children will be able to eat on a clean surface. These sandwich bags are a unique gift—environmentally friendly, fabric (not PVC) lining, and made under fair trade conditions.FDA has approved their contact with food, and they’re free of phthalates and lead.

Organic Hot Cocoa—rich, chocolatey, and the perfect gift for just about anybody. Choose cocoa that’s absolutely organic (and made with nonfat organic milk), convenient (just add hot water), and fairly traded. This product supports farmers in 3 countries—farmers from the Dominican Republic produce organic coca, organic fairly traded sugar from Paraguay, and organic milk from the United States. This is a fantastic and delicious gift for children, co-workers, friends and family.

Recycled Paper Wildlife Calendar: From the House of Doolittle, this 12 month wire bound calendar is a beautiful gift for friends, family members, and co-workers. Made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper and printed on soy ink, this wildlife photo features an inspirational quotation for each month. Caring for the environment by purchasing recycled paper products creates a powerful environmental impact and helps divert good recyclable paper away from landfills and back into consumer products.Choosing a recycled paper calendar is a truly green paper purchase.

Recycled Paper Planner: This product is made by House of Doolittle, a manufacturing company using recycle paper materials for 20 years—these beautiful recycled paper desk planners make for great gifts and are made from 100% post consumer fibers and soy ink. House of Doolittle offers a variety of other recycle paper products, including appointment planners, memo pads, and office supplies.A high quality, environmentally friendly gift for co-workers and friends.

We hope these eco-friendly gift ideas are useful and wish you joy in the upcoming holiday season! Learn more about recycled paper, eco-friendly gifts, and other contributions you can make to do your part and protect the environment.

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Greenline Paper Company, America’s green office supply store. Visit their website for more information on environmentally friendly office supplies, recycled containers, holiday gifts, and recycle paper.

How To Make Smarter Business Decisions: 3 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Office Environment

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 07:52:00 +0000

Many businesses have discovered they not only have an important commitment to the world around them but that there’s a lot to be gained financially from implementing green office initiatives.More than ever, companies are paying attention to their environmental impact and making changes, some starting from the ground up, others taking small steps to creating a more environmentally friendly workplace. No matter the type of business you have or the industry you’re in, there are easy and affordable ways to make very important environmental changes that’ll mean positive results for your bottom line, as well as the environment. This article discusses easy ways companies can create a green office environment.

Recycled Paper in the Workplace:

Approximately 10,000 sheets of paper are used by a single US office worker in a year.

Nearly 95% of this paper will be thrown away, not recycled.

In this decade alone, it’s estimated that Americans will throw away more then 4 million tons of office paper—and 10 million tons of newspaper as well. All this material is recyclable. This paper could make a 12’ wall from New York to the state of California.

One ton of recycled paper can save almost 4,000 pounds of lumber and nearly 25,000 gallons of water.

Recycling one ton of paper uses 64% less energy, 50% less water, 75% less air pollution, and saves approximately 17 trees.

It’s not hard to create a green office environment.The following steps are easy ways to upgrade equipment and supplies to encourage a greener workplace and home office.

New and Efficient Office Equipment:

It may be time to invest in new office equipment—older models use far more energy then modern alternatives. Consider office copiers, fax machines, and other equipment with Energy Star labels. When you purchase green office supplies and equipment, you’ll use less power and have longer lasting equipment. It’s also a good idea to buy a digital copier that also functions as a scanner, printer, and fax machine. If you can purchase office equipment that is versatile, you’ll safe space and money.

Recycle Paper: Go Paperless

It’s a good idea to start using document management software and move away from paper filing that’s been popular for decades. It’s now easy to scan documents or save them as PDFs and other types of files—this makes those documents accessible to many individuals, and available whenever you need them. Using document management software as an alternative to paper is useful in many work environments. If this solution doesn’t work, recycled paper products such as desk pads, computer paper, recycled calendars, and other similar supplies are a great choice.

Recycle Paper and Upgrade Your Bathroom:

There are many easy green substitutes to be made to an office bathroom to reduce water usage and energy, as well as consumption of paper products.Motion sensors in lighting fixtures, automatic flushing devices, and sink water controls will all reduce water and energy consumption.Using recycle paper towels and recycled toilet paper is a great alternative to the regular product, and investing in a cold jet air dryer is a paperless solution.

Those are a few suggestions for green office innovation.Learn more about other green office initiatives and create a workplace you and colleagues can be proud of.

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Greenline Paper Company, America’s green office supply store.Visit their website for more information on environmentally friendly office supplies, desk pads, and recycle paper at Greenlinepaper.com.

Solving the Plastic Bag Pandemic: Natureworks Biodegradable Plastics and Trash Bags

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 07:55:00 +0000

Did you know that it’s estimated that the world uses approximately 1 trillion, 500 billion plastic bags a year? That’s equivalent to almost 1 million plastic bags every minute. Per family, that’s 60 bags per every 4 trips to the grocery store.

One of the most problematic issues with our modern world is the accumulation of non-biodegradable trash, specifically plastic bags like grocery bags and shopping bags made of polyethylene. These bags are very popular—approximately four in every five bags handed out at grocery stores are of the plastic variety. Because these plastic shopping bags are handed out abundantly and are rarely recycled, they end up in landfills and municipal trash incinerators. Plastic garbage bags, trash bags, and shopping bags are non-biodegradable and won’t break down easily in the natural environment. Under ideal circumstances, high-density plastic bags take approximately 20 years to degrade. However, in normal circumstances or less than ideal circumstances, a bag can take as long as 1,000 years to fully disintegrate.

Paper bags aren’t much better.In some ways are even worse than plastic.The manufacture of paper bags creates 50 times as much water pollutants and global warming gases. 90% less electrical energy is required to recycle plastic than the equivalent weight in paper. Additionally, paper grocery bags break down most easily in commercial or municipal composting programs.

Natureworks PLA or corn based “plastics” are one example of an alternative to traditional plastic trash bags and shopping bags. Biodegradable bags such as these are ideal for retail settings, offices, at home, or as a substitute for any non-environmentally friendly plastic bag.Natureworks plastic products and other biodegradable plastics are made from biopolymers, like polylactic acid that can be transformed into anything from clothing fibers, packaging materials, food containers, and a variety of other products. Natureworks bio-plastics are one such example of a plastic that’s derived from 100% renewable, yellow corn resources and can contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.Biodegradable trash bags vary in the amount of time they take to degrade, but most break down in 3 to 6 months in good landfill conditions.Unlike petroleum based, conventional plastics, bio-plastics do not contribute to the toxicity of landfills or incinerator stack emissions.Equally important, if bio-based plastics are littered, they don’t degrade into toxic particles that then pollute nearby bodies of water, wildlife, soil, and other sensitive environments.

Uses for Biodegradable Plastic Bags: Natureworks Plastic and Trash Bags

Replacing traditional non-biodegradable trash bags in the kitchen, home, and office, and cleaning up pooch poop and cat litter are good uses for compostable plastic and trash bags. Take the time to learn more about plastic bags and trash bags made from natural plastic and fibers and find out if they’d be a benefit to your home and office and reduce landfill waste.

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Greenline Paper Company, America’s green office supply store deals with Natureworks Plastic.Visit their website for more information on environmentally friendly office supplies, Trash Bags and the House of Doolittle.

Why Using Recycled Toner Cartridges Greatly Helps the Environment

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:34:00 +0000

When the LaserJet computer printer was introduced by Hewlett-Packard in 1984 it was sold with an "all-in-one" toner cartridge. This toner cartridge seemed like a great idea until the empty cartridges started to cause environmental concerns.Today it is estimated that over 300 million plastic recycled toner cartridges are thrown away yearly in the United States and elsewhere around the world. Each toner cartridge weighs approximately 3-1/2 to 4 pounds, which means that the total weight of cartridges discarded is equivalent to over 67,000 Ford Explorers! Fortunately today most cartridge manufacturers have established capturing programs for the empty cores but the story doesn't end there. Investigations into the destination of these captured cartridges found that many are exported into Asian countries where workers under primitive conditions clean and prepare the empties for recycling.See article here.

Interestingly up to 97% of the materials that make up a toner cartridge can be recycled or reused.That's why domestic recycling or remanufacturing of toner and ink cartridges is the best solution.By reusing recycled toner cartridges, non-renewable resources are conserved and the environmental impacts associated with the manufacturing process are greatly reduced.The reason that many business offices resist remanufactured toner cartridges is because of quality concerns.However, the quality of professionally remanufactured toners has dramatically increased over the past decade and most reputable manufacturers and dealers will 100% guarantee the performance of their remanufactured toner products.

Should a green office use recycled toners? Yes, and you'll save money too!

Some Toner Cartridge Facts

Toner cartridges take between 500-1000 years to decompose in a landfill.

The plastic in each toner cartridge takes about 3.5 quarts of oil to produce.

The number of toner cartridges thrown out increased by 12 percent in the last year.

Anti-trust laws prevent office machine maintenance companies from excluding remanufactured toners in their maintenance contracts.

Steve Baker is owner of Greenline Paper, a green company that provides environmental products including recycled toner cartridges and other recycled and green office supplies.

Buying Organic Coffee Wholesale: Why Make The Switch to Organic Coffee

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 06:15:00 +0000

Did you know that coffee is the most heavily chemically treated food commodity in the world?

When coffee is produced, synthetic petroleum-based fertilizers are frequently used to protect the crop and ward off bugs and other pests. However, these chemicals leech into the soil, destroying its fertility and ability to grow future healthy plants.The chemical laden water runoff gets into adjacent water supplies, polluting local drinking water.Coffee beans grown quickly in the sun for mass production require chemical fertilizers as they’re meant to make up for lost nutrients, as the coffee is grown in less then optimal conditions. Soil erosion and lack of naturally occurring “nitrogen fixing” plants, such as legumes make these pesticides necessary.Because of the full on sun conditions and lack of shade trees,chemicals are necessary to control the large amount of insects, which would normally be eliminated by birds. However, no birds choose to live in the inhospitable treeless full-on sun climate of a coffee farm.

Organic Coffee = Less Deforestation

Buying organic coffee wholesale can help contribute to less deforestation.Naturally, coffee trees grow in the shade of dense rainforests.In order to maximize productivity and get the most out of the crop, the coffee industry developed bean hybrids that are “sun resistant”, and this type of coffee now represents more then 70% of the global coffee market. To make room for these new shade resistant, extra productive trees, vast expanses of the rainforest are being cleared to make room for our morning coffee habit.

Buy Organic Coffee Wholesale: Taste the Difference

We think organic, shade grown coffee just tastes better, too.By nature, the coffee plant produces better tasting and better quality beans when grown slowly and naturally in the shade of the rainforest.As the demand for coffee increases,high productivity techniques developed, but coffee quality has diminished and the market has become flooded with low quality beans and cheaper prices.Buying organic coffee wholesale is a great way to support and encourage healthy systems and natural coffee-production. Organic wholesale coffee encourages better practices from bean buyers, growers, and coffee shops, so you’ll get to enjoy a superior and environmentally friendly cup of coffee.It’s a win-win situation—buying organic coffee wholesale ensures you get the best-tasting beans, and saves out birds, animals, the environment, and the is fair to farmers.

Buy organic coffee wholesale and ensure you’re getting a fair price, and beans grown without harsh fertilizers or toxic pesticides.When you purchase organic coffee wholesale you’ll know you’re drinking better beans—beans grown in the plant’s natural preferences that reap the benefits of a healthy ecosystem.

Learn more about purchasing organic coffee wholesale and how you can affordably enjoy a natural and better tasting cup of coffee.

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Green Line Paper.If you wish to learn more about the benefits of buying organic coffee wholesale, visit our website today and let our environmental paper products make a difference in your home.

Recycled Toilet Paper: The Easiest Way To Be Environmentally Conscious

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 31 May 2010 06:59:00 +0000

No matter how much of an effort you’re making to be green, some of the easiest ways to be environmentally conscious are often overlooked. Next time you venture into the bathroom, examine your toilet paper. There’s a huge chance that the toilet paper you’re using is made from trees—trees from the last virgin forests of North America.

Is using “regular” toilet paper really as bad as driving a Hummer?

Consider this: If every household in the USA replaced only a single roll of virgin fiber toilet paper with one made from 100% recycled post consumer waste, we could save almost 424,000 trees.

Buying recycled toilet paper for your home or office is one of the easiest ways to avoid contributing to destructive environmental processes. Napkins, paper towels, tissues, and toilet paper are all one-time usage only products, so it makes sense to purchase recycled versions of these products and avoid contributing to more waste. If not, paper giants such as Kimberly-Clark are forced to source from virgin forests that are ecologically valuable.

Recycled toilet paper is a product that has high post-consumer content. Post consumer products have a high content of recycled material—paper in this case that would have otherwise gone to a landfill or burned up in an incinerator. Other non-recycled toilet paper products also have been put through a harsh bleaching process with harmful chemicals like chlorine to give them a white and bright appearance. The chlorine and chemicals end up either in our water supply or in the air and can be harmful to fish, animals, and humans as well. Recycled toilet paper should be chlorine free (TCF) or processed chlorine-free (PCF).

Unfortunately, recycled toilet paper has a reputation for not holding up to regular brands when it comes to comfort—and that’s something that most Americans are unwilling to compromise on. Recycled toilet paper represents only 2% of the TP sold in the US market, but in Europe and Latin America it stands at 20%.

Recycled toilet paper might not be the softest toilet paper you’ve ever tried, but seriously consider whether or not it’s worth turning the remaining forests of North America into the most disposable of products.

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Green line paper. If you wish to learn more about recycled toilet paper & environmental products visit our website today and let our eco-friendly products make a difference in your home or office.

Alternative Fiber and Its Effects on Green Office Supplies

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 09:17:00 +0000

Green is the new “black” when it comes to the bottom line. With the rising development of large corporations all the way down to small businesses using sustainable business practices and green technology for the greater good, the path is opening for the production of tree-free alternative fiber paper products. Green office supplies made of alternative fiber are available as a viable source of recycled products.

What is alternative fiber? There are plenty of sources of alternative fiber that can be used - such as paper pulp - producing green office supplies, many of them producing paper of finer grades than is possible by wood pulp alone. Examples of more common alternative fibers are hemp and kenaf.These alternative fibers have been used in products for some time but in the United States the use of hemp has issues and is not a common viable source. More recently, alternative fiber sources for paper production are recycled from agricultural by-products. These viable sources are sugar cane bagasse pulp, wheat, barley, oat, rye, and rice straws or non-cereal straws such as red fescue or rye grasses, and bamboo. The advantages of using alternative fiber in the production of green office supplies and paper is that agricultural residues have the advantage of providing fiber without growing anything beyond what is already produced.

Example of Green Office Supplies Made of Alternative Fiber:

Paper, envelopes, disposable coffee cups made of Bagasse - Sugar Cane Pulp. Sugar cane being the world’s largest crop. Using is agricultural bi-product as an alternative fiber has a direct effect on the environment as a sustainable resource of tree free pulp.

The production of alternative fiber as a source to green office supplies is on the rise. With the support of corporations and businesses of all sizes looking to improve their bottom line for a brighter and greener future by using green office supplies.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer working for a greener future with the support of Green Line Paper. It sells only earth-friendly green office supplies and products from alternative fiber paper to compostable coffee cups. To view our green office supplies & recycled paper products ,visit our website at www.greenlinepaper.com

Keeping it Green: New Environmentally Friendly Products for your Home and Office

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:20:00 +0000

There are many products that are “switching” over to the green side. Recycled goods sometimes get a bad rap of being poorly constructed or unattractive, but with more and more paper products being “converted” to environmentally friendly solutions, why not explore your options? When the New Year rolls around, many of us throw out our old desk planner and wall calendar and buy a new one with very little thought. Keeping the environment in mind, there are many terrific paper products available that are made from 100% post consumer fibers and 100% recycled paper: wall calendars, memo pads, desk pads, and appointment colanders as well. Some of these green products will surprise you as they’re not too expensive and the quality is better then ever!

Companies like the “House of Doolittle” have set out to make products “that keep tomorrow in mind”, featuring paper products with soy ink, USA made, and entirely crafted out of reusable and recycled paper. Products like these are an excellent way to protect the environment. Is your office a green office? Consider using these products to make your workplace or home environment a more eco friendly space. Becoming “green office certified” entails using energy wisely, recycling, and purchasing papers, cardboard, and other materials that are recycled and environmentally efficient. The new recycled planners, calendars, and paper available will allow you to save trees.

Businesses are becoming increasingly aware how the usage of green office supplies (such as calendars, planners, notebooks, and paper) are contributing to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable world. The implementation of these practices can result in decreased costs for businesses and the purchasing of earth-friendly products can have a significant effect on greenhouse gas emissions, landfill space, and help conserve natural resources as well.

Ensure all office supplies are environmentally friendly, recyclable, and high in PCW contents (Post-Consumer Waste). Sustainable office products that are easy to purchase include paper, envelopes, calendars, cartridges, charts, and planners. Choosing to buy these office products will help reduce the consumption of energy, greenhouse gas emissions, other toxic emissions, wastewater, solid and material waste, and garbage. If you’re interested in purchasing planners, calendars, and other supplies for your home or office, learn more information about companies like the House of Doolittle as they can provide attractive, affordable, and environmentally friendly office supplies.

Bio: Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Greenline Paper Company, America’s green office supply store. Visit their website for more information on environmentally friendly office supplies and the House of Doolittle. House of Doolittle's products may be purchased from GreenLine Paper Company--on the web at www.greenlinepaper.com

The Cost of Corrosion to Metal Parts Manufacturers

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:33:00 +0000

Corrosion, and in particular rust, costs metal parts manufacturers and foundries an average of more than 350 billion dollars annually! During manufacturing and shipping, metal parts can be exposed to moisture, causing rust. Many times clients return these rusted parts, doubling shipping costs, and sometimes causing the company sandblasting, repair, or replacement costs.

VCI packaging can reduce corrosion of metal parts in the storage and shipping process. VCI stands for volatile corrosion inhibitor. The VCI process uses environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors that are coated on packaging paper or polyethylene. These materials are used to package metal parts so that the inhibitor chemicals completely cover all surfaces of the metal. This prevents oxygen and moisture from causing corrosion and rust on the metal.

There are several VCI packaging products, designed for different types of metal. These include VCI paper, poly bags, and foam. In addition, there is a dry coat rust inhibitor liquid that can be used to coat metal parts for added corrosion protection.VCI packaging works because very small amounts of the inhibitor are continually released by evaporation into the enclosed air space in the package and then settle on the metal surfaces to form an invisible thin film of protection from corrosion.

Sometimes in addition to using VCI packaging, it is important for metal parts manufacturers to assess the manufacturing process to help insure corrosion free parts. Workers who handle metal parts should wear gloves because fingerprints containing salts and humidity that can cause corrosion. It is important to quickly package a ferrous part as soon as it is manufactured. These parts should be kept clean of moisture, dirt, or corrosion already present because VCI material cannot repair already damaged parts.

For best results, the metal part should be no more than 18 inches from the packaging, and metal objects like coils of steel wires should be tightly wrapped with overlapping VCI film. In addition, VCI Material should not to be stored for more than six months before they are used. Finally, it is best to test the packaging and shipping before ordering VCI material in bulk, and to consult with a VCI packaging expert to determine the best packaging method for your metal parts.

Sue McCrossin is an internet marketing consultant working for green-vci.com to disseminate information about environmentally friendly ways to Metal Rust Removal by using VCI Paper, green VCI Corrosion prevention packaging.

Strategies for a Greener Home and Office: The Environmental Products That’ll Get You There

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:11:00 +0000

Is my office green? What can I do to make my home green?

There are now affordable and functionable environmental products available to make your workplace and home environment efficient and healthy. You can now take it upon yourself to lay the groundwork to making your surroundings better, even if your colleagues aren’t. It’s 2010—and environmental products are playing a more important role then ever in the green home or green workplace, resulting in more productive offices, less waste, and a lower environmental impact. There are many small ways environmental products can serve to improve a home or office setting, and this article discusses easy practices and products you invest in to make your living and working spaces positive, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Breaking Down the “Green” Workplace:

1.Your computer: For many, if not most people, computers are the primary tools at work. Simply changing your energy settings and shutting computers down each day will reserve power. Printers as well can be shut down and only plugged in when needed as well. Shutting off office lights and electricity in unoccupied spaces can make a difference.

2.Computer paper/Printing paper: Although we live in a “digital age”, offices still go through massive amounts of paper—and trees. Make use of PDFs and keep files and documents in digital form—filing cabinets are a thing of the past. Forget about mass quantities of bleached virgin printer paper—there are excellent recycled alternatives available with high percentages of post-consumer waste. The combination of energy, water, toxic ink and chemicals from normal paper has a damaging effect on the environment. If you are diligent about protecting the environment, you should be using recycled office paper products as they reduce landfill waste. And be sure to print on both sides! Did you know that 55% more water is saved when producing recycled paper? Recycled paper also takes 60-70% less energy to produce than its alternative.

3.Environmental Products for the Office: So now that we’ve covered paper, what about envelopes, charts, calendars, and planners? Environmental alternatives for these products are also available, and they’re attractive and affordable as well. Before purchasing, ensure that these environmental products are made from 100% post-consumer fiber and soy ink. Planners, desk pads, and wall calendars, as well as memo pads are all available as environmental products, with no added costs.

Your Green Home:

1.Paper Towels and Toilet Paper: Choose recycled paper towels, toilet paper, or cloth towels in the bathroom and kitchen. These environmental products are available to be purchased in bulk, saving you money as well as packaging and plastic during shipping.

2.Environmental Cleaning Products: If your cleaning products are toxic smelling and dangerous for your skin, does it really mean they’re more effective? Not at all. Biodegradable glass cleaners are fume-free and don’t leave chemical streaks on glass. Kitchen trash bags are available in a variety of convenient sizes and they’re made of plant-derived products. It’s a good idea to choose safer, more effective, and non-toxic environmental cleaning products as they work just as well as traditional products, without the health effects—and with an environmental bonus.

All of these products are available, affordable, and will make your workplace and home environment a better place. You might just be surprised how convenient they are when you travel down a greener path…

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for www.greenlinepaper.com.If you wish to learn more about environmental products, visit our website today and let our Environmental Paper products make a difference in your home or office.

Greenline Paper Wins ‘Investing in Nature’ Award From the Pennsylvania Nature Conservancy

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 05:16:00 +0000

(Harrisburg, PA) – In an effort to recognize those organizations who strive to preserve Pennsylvania’s millions of acres of natural areas for future generations, The Nature Conservancy announced that GreenLine Paper Company, Inc. of York, PA was a recipient of the 2009 Investing in Nature Award. The award acknowledges those business that model strong conservation practices to improve the health of our world and our economy. GreenLine received their award in Natural Resources Management category.

“I’m proud to say we had a very competitive field of nominees,” said Bill Kunze, Pennsylvania State Director for the Nature Conservancy, “all of whom deserve our appreciation for their contributions to Pennsylvania’s economy and for their many initiatives that help us accomplish the mission of The Nature Conservancy to preserve the diversity of life on Earth.”

GreenLine Paper Company has a sustainable product initiative, selling only earth-friendly products from recycled paper to compostable coffee cups. It serves as the local recycling drop-off center and donates 1% of its after-tax profits to two nonprofit organizations, Environmental Paper Network and Conservatree Paper, which advocate for recycled paper and forest conservation.

GreenLine Paper Company opened as a fully-green, office supply company in 1992, well before the country’s more universally recognized environmental movement. “This award will serve as a constant reminder for us to always consider Pennsylvania’s natural spaces in our everyday workplace decisions,” said Steve Baker, President.

GreenLine Paper Company, Inc.
"America's Green Office Supply"
631 S. Pine Street, York, PA 17403
E-mail: steveb@greenlinepaper.com
Toll Free: 800-641-1117, Fax: 717-846-3806
www.greenlinepaper.com

Go Green! Use Environmental Paper

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:19:00 +0000

Due to the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, interest in becoming more environmentally friendly has been increasing in homes and companies all over the world. One way to become more environmentally friendly is to reduce your carbon footprint. Reducing your carbon footprint for your home and office becomes a lot easier when using environmental paper.

When a home or company uses environmental paper, they help to conserve natural resources and generate less carbon pollution into Earth's delicate atmosphere. When we use recycled paper we also reduce the amount of paper that goes into landfills where the powerful greenhouse gas methane is produced. Because the fibers have already been processed once, manufacturing requires less energy and pollution and is healthier for the environment. What are environmental paper and recycled paper products? Environmental paper is recycled paper that is manufactured out of post consumer wastepaper and is used to manufacture recycled paper products. One benefit of using environmental paper is helping to preserve forests because the demand for wood is reduced.

Recycled Paper Products for the Home:

If you are a homeowner interested in helping the environment, recycled paper products are a good place to start. Recycled paper cups and dinnerware are an eco-friendly way of using everyday household products that can lower your impact on the earth. Other products made out of environmental paper like recycled paper towels, toilet tissue, recycled coffee filters, recycled paper napkins and other environmental paper products are an easy way to do your part in your own home. You can help teach your family to preserve the environment by using recycled paper products in your household whenever possible.

Recycled Paper Products for the Office:

Recycled paper products made for the office use can really make a large volume impact. When a company of any size chooses to use environmental paper and promotes the use of recycled paper products to its employees, it really adds up. Start by swapping out regular non-recycled copier paper with recycled copier paper in all of the office copiers, fax machines, and laser printers. Other recycled paper products that are commonly available are envelopes, flip charts, notepads, filing supplies and letterhead. Companies can also use recycled paper products in the bathrooms, for example, toilet paper and paper towels.

Environmental paper products can be used throughout the home and office. Choosing to live and work in more environmentally friendly surroundings will help to preserve our natural resources and make our world a cleaner, smarter place to live.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer and editor.“Go Green! Use Environmental Paper” sites examples of diminishing carbon footprint by using environmental paper and recycled office paper products in the home and in the office. Greenline Paper is America’s Green office and home supplier. For more information about caring for the environment see our web site www.greenlinepaper.com

Using Environmental Paper and Other Tips for Reducing Waste

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:35:00 +0000

Using environmental paper is a powerful step to becoming more environmentally responsible. If everyone, or many…or even some switched to recycled paper, tree free paper and other recycled products, it would make a big difference. After all, the paper industry is the fourth largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and 1/3 of landfills are filled with paper. Common sense efforts in the office and home can be made to reduce paper use, and hopefully the actions will be observed by others, and they will be inspired to do the same.

In the office, always choose recycled paper or tree free paper for copy paper, envelopes, folders, etc. They are readily available, and look for 100% PCW (post consumer waste) recycled paper for the greatest environmental impact. In addition to responsible purchases, a simple action to save paper is to use both sides of the paper. Sound simple? Yes, but not many companies follow this easy practice! If paper has not been printed on both sides, it can be repurposed for writing messages or scrap paper. Also, before printing a document from a computer, adjust the settings to print out only what is needed. When there is no more need for the documents, paper can be shredded and used for packing material. The remaining paper should be properly recycled in the paper recycling bin. It is all about common sense, reusing and repurposing.

At home, consider cloth napkins instead of paper, as well as using dish towels instead of paper towels. Environmental paper napkins and paper towels are also available for purchase, and are a responsible choice. Another habit which will conserve is to pay bills and view banking statements online. Think of the countless homes receiving pages of itemized notations, when it could be viewed electronically without using one sheet of paper. Also, don’t forget to visit and support the local library where a multitude of information can be found for pleasure reading or research in existing volumes of books. No need to buy a new book, only to collect dust and clutter up a home after it is read.

All of these tips are very straightforward and will not take any extra time, and they do not cost anything. They are simple habits which will conserve precious resources, and reduce waste.

Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. “Using Environmental Paper and Other Tips for Reducing Waste” notes some habits for office and home that can conserve paper. Greenlinepaper.com sells environmental paper and tree free paper in addition to many other socially responsible products.

Everyday Use of Environmental Products in the Home and Office

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 06:35:00 +0000

Think you can’t change the world? Think again. Considering your everyday routines, there are steps you can take using environmental products to conserve resources. From home use products to the business office, there are many “green” product options that perform just as well or better than the more wasteful alternatives. It is as simple as being mindful of the availability of environmental products, and using them on a daily basis with your regular routine.

Start a morning at home with responsible choices for personal care products, including shampoos, conditioners, lotions and soaps, which are organic and contain no petroleum derivatives or chemicals. Even the fabrics you choose for clothing and towels can be environmentally sound, including organic products and 100% chemically untreated cotton. Look for household paper products like tissues, paper towels, toilet tissue and napkins made with 100% recycled fibers and post consumer waste, and also which are processed chlorine free.

These everyday choices make a difference for a more sustainable earth. Many household cleaners are highly toxic and non-biodegradable. Choose all natural ingredient products for cleaning your home, and check to see if the packaging is recyclable. Non-toxic and cruelty-free products are readily available and are very effective cleaners. Plastic trash bags for use at home or in the office are now available in recycled plastic as well as vegetable-based, compostable “plastics.”

How about the use of environmental products in the office? There are many responsible choices for office supplies. Considering the huge volume of paper used by the average office, it is critical to make educated choices when purchasing recycled paper. When buying office paper; including copier paper, envelopes, file folders, etc., look for 100% post consumer waste (PCW) and chlorine free processing. Some papers are labeled recycled or recyclable but only use a small percentage of truly recycled, post-consumer content paper. Additional environmentally responsible office supplies available include pens, pencils, remanufactured toner cartridges, and much more.

The choices are abundant for products that can be used everyday in a home, school or office. And, they are easily accessible at a reasonable cost. The choices that we make with our purchasing dollars can have a profound impact on the future for our earth.

Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. “Everyday Use of Environmental Products for the Home and Office” notes the availability of green products for many uses. Greenlinepaper.com is a socially responsible company who supplies environmental office products and other green products for the home.

GreenLine Paper Company of York Pennsylvania is announcing their new Philly Greenserve program.

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 06:47:00 +0000

Sept. 14, 2009— for Immediate Release
GreenLine Paper Company of York Pennsylvania is announcing their new Philly Greenserve program. This October the company will begin a free delivery service to Philadelphia locations with a $50 minimum order. Service will be available on a designated day of the week. Customers can request an e-mail or phone call prior to the delivery run to get their orders in on time. "It's high time that we devised a more affordable way of serving our fellow Philadelphia SBN businesses," says Steve Baker, President. GreenLine Paper is a dedicated green products company operating since 1992. A wide range of products are available at www.greenlinepaper.com from office products to restaurant supplies to fair trade and organic foods.

GreenLine Paper Company of York PA is carbon-offsetting through the carbonfund.org and has been a long-standing Phila. SBN and Susquehanna SBN member.

GreenLine’s website and print catalog offers hundreds of green products from 100 percent recycled copier paper to compostable plates, cups and non-toxic cleaning products. These products can be used in business offices, food service companies, schools, and homes.

By far, the biggest selling product at GreenLine is their recycled and tree-free papers. These paper products are whitened without chlorine. Always eco-conscious, GreenLine reduces shipping waste by reusing shipping cartons and packing them with only recyclable paper or biodegradable peanuts. No new boxes are used for shipping unless they are already manufacturer packaged, and only post-consumer recycled or tree-free fiber paper is used for catalogs. The company’s vision is to grow with the support of satisfied customers and help lead the office products industry to higher levels of environmental sustainability.

GreenLine Paper offers a Green Office Certification to any customer who meets environmentally friendly certification requirements. Applicants must use energy wisely, recycle, use recycled products, and be environmentally savvy. Companies that fulfill these requirements will receive a certification graphic for their Web site, which when clicked, will show the date of certification.

Contact:

Steve Baker at 800-641-1117 or steveb@greenlinepaper.com
GreenLine Paper Company, Inc.
"America's Green Office Supply"
631 S. Pine Street
York, PA 17403
E-mail: steveb@greenlinepaper.com
customer service: 800-641-1117 or info@greenlinepaper.com
Fax: 717-846-3806

Make Your Back-to-School List Green by Using Environmental Products

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:43:00 +0000

This year’s back to school shopping list is an opportunity to do your part to save the environment by using green environmental products. Parents and students can fill backpacks with report covers, index cards, binders, compositions books, pens and pencils that are environmentally friendly. This year, most lists also include napkins, paper towels, tissues and cleaning products at the teacher's request. By using green environmental products you’ll be doing your part to save the environment.

Help your students go green by using recycled environmental products for back to school. If you are diligent about protecting the environment, your children will learn these same green buying practices and continue the use of recycled environmental products. It is also important to make sure the products you purchase are truly “recycled”. Most recycled paper products contain very little post-consumer waste (PCW) paper, and are actually composed of wood chips and mill scraps. Only recycled paper made with PCW aids in fighting deforestation and reducing landfill waste.

Green Environmental Products for Back to School

WRAP-N-MAT – this unique product is a reusable cloth sandwich bag that converts into a placemat when using. Machine washable for many years of use. Available in new Eco-Design or Forest Green colors.

Binders - REBINDER recycled binders are very durable and more resistant to spine-tearing than the traditional vinyl binders. REBINDER is truly recyclable and reusable because it is a corrugated cardboard binder. (Vinyl binders are neither recyclable nor reusable.)

Recycled Filler Paper, Student Composition Books, Report Covers, Index Cards, Single Subject Wire Bound Notebooks, Daily Planners and Calendars- Environmental products made from 100% recycled fibers and 30%-40% post consumer waste.

Recycled Old Money or Old Blue Jean Rulers & Pencils

Recycled Steel Paper Clips - Made from 100% recycled steel.

ECO-writer Pencils - Made from 90% post consumer waste.

Skilcraft Recycled Pens - Made from recycled plastic manufactured by the Industries for the Blind.

Zebra ECO Highlighters - Made from 70% post consumer waste from old cds and cell phones.

Luncheon Napkins, Paper Towels, Tissues – Environmental products made from 100 % recycled fibers and with as high as 90% post consumer waste.

Products should be chosen recycled, tree-free, biodegradable, non-toxic, sustainable, or reusable. Environmental products include paper, pens and pencils, planners, filing products, ink cartridges, and more. Responsible choices can be made when purchasing other environmental products in a school including cups and food containers, trash bags, and cleaning supplies.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer and editor. “Make Your Back to School List Green by Using Environmental Products” suggest examples of green environmental products that can be used for back to School. GreenLine Paper Company (Greenlinepaper.com) encourages responsible energy use and conscientious choices for office equipment and green office supplies.

Greenpeace: Is the Kleenex Kleercut campagin over?

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:53:00 +0000

Since 2004, Greenpeace has campaigned for Kimberly-Clark Corporation (maker of Kleenex, Scott, and Cottonelle products) to stop destroying ancient forests to make their products. This effort is now "case closed", with Greenpeace asking that we thank Kimberly-Clark because they've set a goal of: "obtaining 100 percent of their wood fiber from environmentally responsible sources by 2011. The policy increases the company’s use of FSC-certified pulp and recycled fiber globally, and will prevent all K-C products from ever being made from endangered forests." We applaud the efforts of Greenpeace and Kimberly-Clark for taking this step.

But it stops short. "By the end of 2011, Kimberly-Clark will ensure that 40 percent of its North American tissue fiber is either recycled or FSC certified. Say what? They will use 0-40% recycled fiber??!!! We can do better!

We are doing better. Brands such as those we offer contain
100% recycled fiber. This means there is also obviously no old growth fiber in these brands either.

Are FSC papers really that green?

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:17:00 +0000

Having been involved with the paper industry for the last 17 years, I have witnessed many changing environmental paper trends. Every few years something new emerges in the industry that is considered environmentally trendy at the time. First it was the “post-consumer waste” content or PCW recycled content by which the greenness of a paper was measured. The next wave of excitement came with the term “tree-free,” meaning that the paper is made from alternative fiber sources like industrial hemp, kenaf, bagasse or a variety of other plant-based fibers other than trees. Currently, the dominant environmental indicator is “FSC certified” paper. FSC is the acronym for the Forest Stewardship Council and is the subject of our discussion here.

The Forest Stewardship Council is an independent certification agency established to insure that their approved products come from sustainably managed forests. They certify wood products as well as paper and are supported by the organization Rainforest Alliance.

This all sounds well and good until we recall that the original objective for environmental papers was not just to make papers that saved energy, water and trees but also to utilize commercial and household paper waste as the feedstock for the new product. This is called recycling. The beauty is that we are transforming waste paper into new, recycled usable products, rather than “disposing” at a heavy price to the planet. Whereas, the FSC viewpoint is that we should continue to make paper from trees and that recycling and landfills are not that big of an issue. We disagree!

The paper industry, like a lot of the extracting industries (i.e., coal, oil, etc.,) does not like to change. Changing the way they do things means spending money and they don’t like to do that. It’s easier and preferable for them to continue to make paper from trees instead of building new recycling infrastructure, or developing new pulping technologies utilizing alternative fiber sources.

With FSC, they can pay a nominal fee for the use of the FSC certification and continue to not change very much to appear green. Mills, printing houses, paper distributors all proudly display their FSC emblems to the public but unfortunately the recycled content of their products are often low or non-existent. One can say, without being extremist, that much of this activity is a clear case of corporate greenwashing.

Since global warming is the gravest circumstance for our planet’s future, and that world-wide deforestation is responsible for one-fifth of all greenhouse gas emissions, it stands to reason that one of our greatest responsibilities is to preserve the existing trees and forests as much as we can. For wood products that must come from trees, the FSC certification makes a whole lot of sense. But for paper and paper products, recycling, along with paper conservation, is clearly the better answer.

Qualities determining real environmentally-friendly paper may be considered in this order:

Post-consumer waste recycled content (PCW). Try for 100%.

Processed without chlorine or Processed Chlorine Free® (PCF)

Alternative fiber sources or Tree-Free

FSC certified recycled

FSC certified

Steve Baker is a writer of this article. The article “Recycle Paper:Are FSC papers really that green” defines the need of recycled paper product in society and effect of recycled product in environment. Greenlinepaper.com focused on global issue of Global Warming.

Scientists study 'garbage patch' in Pacific Ocean

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:45:00 +0000

The amount of plastic trash in the ocean is not new news. It's a huge problem (probably about the size of Texas, no pun intended) that is getting worse. Coverage on it yesterday caught my attention. Researchers are studying and considering what might be done to clean some of it up. While they work on that, the obvious issue for us is to do our part to avoid plastics and choose biodegradable alternatives, educate against and pickup litter. The effects of this problem on the ecosystem effects us, studies have found pieces of plastic in fish. That means we're eating plastic. Litter washing down storm drains eventually makes its way into the ocean. Baltimore has a net to catch some of this litter. Here is a video on the issue. Many organizations are working on this, including: http://www.greatgarbagepatch.org/

The History of Recycled Paper

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:50:00 +0000

If it were not for the efforts of the world's paper recycling industries, tremendous volumes of waste paper from discarded newspapers and magazines, junk mail and printer scrap would end up in the waste stream and, thus, in local landfills and incinerators.

Approximately half of all of the paper recovered is sourced from industry and business as commercial waste. Another third of all recovered paper comes from households, with paper collection and recovery representing one of the most direct ways in which the public can participate in saving the environment. Almost any household paper can be recycled, including used newspapers, cardboard, packaging, stationery, direct mail, magazines, catalogs, greeting cards and wrapping paper.

Recycled Paper in the United States of America

Recovering waste materials for the manufacturing of paper products has long been a practice in the United States. The history of recycled paper has several major dates of importance:

1690: The first paper mill to use recovered linen was established by the Rittenhouse family.

1896: The first major recycling center was started by the Benedetto family in New York City, where they collected rags, newspaper, and trash with a pushcart.

1993: The first year when more paper was recycled than was buried in landfills.

In many instances, recovered paper accounts for more than half the volume of raw material used in the production of recycled content products.High recycling rates are achieved in many countries around the world. In Europe, for example, the recycled paper industry met the voluntary target of a 56% recycling rate by 2005.

Already more than six centuries old, paper recycling has grown substantially during the last few years and continues to expand. Many packaging materials, newsprint and tissues are made wholly or in part from recycled paper fiber. The recycled paper industry collects material, sorts and segregates it into various grades, bales it for ease of handling, and transports it for subsequent re-pulping.

Thanks to government incentives and industry leadership and the tireless efforts of the millions of Americans who recycle paper at home, work, and school paper recycling has reached record levels. In 2008, 57.4 percent of the paper consumed in the U.S. was recovered for recycling. This impressive figure equals 340 pounds for each man, woman, and child in America.

At the same time it should be noted that paper consumption also continues to rise and the pressures on the world’s remaining forests is formidable. And although a lot of paper is being recycled, less than 10% of the printing and writing papers being manufactured today contain post-consumer recycled content.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer and editor interested in saving the environment by using GreenLine recycled paper products. “The History of Recycled Paper”outlines recycled paper facts and the impact of using recycled paper on our environment. Greenlinepaper.com is a provider of environmental paper/recycled paper products for office use & home.

Types of Recycled Paper

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:55:00 +0000

Recycled paper should be used in order to save natural resources, and there are two types: recycled paper made from pre-consumer waste and the other from post consumer waste. Recycled paper and other environmentally responsible products are available from Greenlinepaper.com.

Recycled paper is easily accessible, usable, and affordable, and there are two kinds of recycled paper available. Pre-consumer waste is scraps from the paper mill used to make recycled paper, and post-consumer content recycled paper is made from paper that has already been used and recycled by the consumer. Using recycled paper instead of virgin forest fiber paper reduces energy consumption by 44%, net greenhouse emissions by 38%, particulate emissions by 41%, wastewater by 50%, solid waste by 49%, and wood use by 100%. Knowing the difference between post-consumer and pre-consumer recycled fibers will help purchasers make educated choices on paper products.

Paper scraps and trimmings from a paper mill are called “mill broke” and these are also known as pre-consumer content or waste. These paper scraps, which have never reached there end use, can be recycled back into paper at the mill. It is typically from printers’ trimmings or damaged paper rolls, and when mixed with water, it can be turned back into paper pulp. The paper mill can manufacture the paper pulp internally to make recycled paper.

Post-consumer waste (PCW) recycled paper is paper that has been printed on and used by consumers or commercial entities. There are different amounts of PCW used in recycled paper, and these are noted on the packaging of paper products including copy paper, letterhead, and envelopes. The Environmental Protection Agency requires a minimum of 30% PCW to allow paper to be called “recycled.” 100% post consumer waste recycled paper is readily available, and significantly more environmentally friendly.

When purchasing paper products, look for 100% PCW, as well as 100% processed chlorine free (PCF) products, both of which are clearly marked on package labeling. These standards exceed the EPA requirements, and are the best environmental choice. Chlorine-free bleaching methods avoid the production of dangerous toxic residues during the bleaching process, which pollutes rivers and streams and can be harmful to the health of wildlife and humans.

Bio: Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. “Types of Recycled Paper” notes the options available for recycled paper offered by Greenlinepaper.com. Greenlinepaper.com is a socially responsible company that features 100% post-consumer waste paper products, natural cleaning supplies, and biodegradable home products.

Recycled Paper Products: Beware of GreenWashing

noreply@blogger.com (Green Line Paper Company) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:35:00 +0000

When talking to people about our company, GreenLine Paper, we always hear "you guys are at the right place at the right time." And yes that is certainly true that after 16 years of being a dedicated green company, the world is experiencing a powerful "green wave" of environmental activity. (Thank goodness, because we don't have a whole lot of time to turn things around.)

BUT, along with the emergence of the green wave there is also a significant amount of greenwashing and pretense taking place. Companies that were never green, like the polluting and extracting industries, are spending significant amounts of money to greenwash their image which can be very confusing to consumers. They will even create their own dubious green certifications for their products. A good example of this is International Paper's SFI certification for their paper products. There is already an independent "sustainable forest" certification in existance called FSC for Forest Stewardship Council. But that's not good enough for IP; they have to create their own green standards making them the watchdogs over their own manufacturing practices. We all know how well that worked with Enron, the big Banks & Insurance and the housing market speculators.

The other noticeable side effect of the green wave is that suddenly a lot of new "green" companies are coming into existence. This is good and bad as we want the right kinds of products to take a larger share of the market. However, they are often not as authentically green as they might profess. For example, they might sell both green and traditional products, which we think kind of neutralizes the positive environmental impact.

So what is the green consumer to do?

1. Research the emblems and certifications to make sure they are real and fit with your values.

2. Buy from dedicated green companies -- that means companies that sell exclusively environmental products.

Recycled Paper Products: Green Cleaning Products

noreply@blogger.com (Sue McCrossin) — Fri, 30 May 2008 16:17:00 +0000

Green Cleaning Products

Tired of the drab day-in and day-out at your office? Put some color in your day and Go Green with green cleaning products and green office products! Green cleaning products are made from all natural, non-toxic ingredients that are not tested on animals and are designed for the office that cares about the environment now. Why should your office start using green cleaning products? The benefits are significant. First, companies are starting to be more aware of protecting our valuable natural resources and promoting conservation. Secondly, water and air pollution are also reduced through the production of recycled products. A third benefit would be that green cleaning products are earth friendly. And, finally, using refillable products saves on landfill space. These are just a few of the important reasons to make the switch today. With a wide selection of green cleaning products and green office products to choose from, your entire office can make the world a better place.

Ease into green office products by starting with office paper for your copier, printers, and fax machines. Once you realize the brightness and quality of this paper is the same as the paper you are currently using, move onto letterhead and envelopes, computer forms and flip charts. You can even keep your entire office staff on track with green office products like calendars, planners and desk pads. But you don’t have to stop there. Green Cleaning Products are also available. Green Cleaning Products include:

Organic Soap (earth friendly)

No Phosphate Dishwasher Detergent

Earth Friendly All Purpose Cleaner

Earth Friendly Dish Liquid Soap

Earth Friendly Window Cleaner

Earth Friendly Toilet Cleaner

You can supply the restrooms in your office with toilet tissue, paper towels and facial tissues. Even your company kitchen can be stocked with paper towels, coffee filters, plates, cups, forks and knives. It is easy to become environmentally conscious once you learn about all the green office products that are available.

Becoming an environmentally friendly and socially responsible company will allow your employees to take pride in doing their part. Using green office products at work promotes using green cleaning products at home, too! It is a win-win situation for our environment.

To become diligent in protecting the environment, allow Greenline Paper to supply your green cleaning products and green office products. GreenlinePaper.com sells true, environmentally friendly recycled office paper and products. Browse our site to learn more about how your business can become proactive in saving the environment by using green cleaning products!

Recycled Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC):Recycled Paper Products

noreply@blogger.com (Sue McCrossin) — Fri, 30 May 2008 16:16:00 +0000

RECYCLED, SFI or FSC:

WHICH IS THE GREENEST PAPER?

Recently elements of the paper industry have been waging a well-funded public relations campaign touting the environmental friendliness of their industry. The ads are stressing their abundant, well-managed forests and logging through the Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) programs. At the same time they also seem to be calling into question the importance of recycled content and the methods used to make recycled paper. This is an unfortunate backtracking from their earlier promises of increased recycling rates and new de-inking mills.

Although sustainability is very important in forest management practices, FSC and SFI certified virgin paper products cannot hope to be as green as post-consumer recycled paper. Recycling is a system that not only conserves natural resources but also reduces municipal solid waste.

In the time of global climate change, a new concern is emerging around the methane (greenhouse) gas that escapes from paper trapped in landfills. Another good reason why the paper industry's emphasis should be on diverting as much paper from disposal as possible, introducing alternative fibers like industrial hemp, bagasse, kenaf and urging public conservation so that the trees can be left standing to help fight global warming and protect wildlife habitats.

Benefits of Recycled Paper

Compared to copy paper made from 100% virgin forest fiber, a copy paper made from 100% recycled content reduces:

total energy consumption by 44%
net greenhouse gas emissions by 38%
particulate emissions by 41%
wastewater by 50%
solid waste by 49%
wood use by 100%

Source: Environmental Defense Paper Calculator.

Article written by Steve Baker, owner of www.greenlinepaper.com. Green Line Paper is a supplier of Green Office Products and Green Paper.