I sat back in my chair after sending my document to the printer, and noted that I was running low on paper. Time to get some more, I thought.
Being a thrifty sort I’m always looking for the best prices. My trip to the office supply store to pick up paper was no different. What was the most economical paper I could get, balancing good enough quality with not breaking the bank. It had been quite a while since I had purchased paper. Again, my thrifty side points out that buying in bulk is usually a lot cheaper, and chugging through a box of 5000 sheets takes me a few years. I was surprised at the variety of choices – five different brands in a myriad of brightnesses, weights, amount of recycled paper, and paper sources.
One brand caught my eye – Domtar’s Earth Choice Paper. According to their packaging the paper is both Rainforest Alliance Certified and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. In addition Domtar donates $350,000 annually to World Wildlife Fund (WWF). With these logos on the label I felt good – that I was making an environmentally sound purchase.
Rainforest Alliance “…works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices and consumer behavior.”
Forest Stewardship Council “…shall promote environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests.”
World Wildlife Fund “…to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth. ”
Hunters are some of the most conservation-minded people around. Many spend countless hours volunteering on conservation projects and open their wallets to help fund research, management and conservation initiatives. While WWF is not a pro-hunting organization, they are also not an anti-hunting organization ( “What They Say About Hunting” – NSSF). They have the best interests of all wildlife in mind. So I have no problem in supporting them through this type of ‘second-hand’ funding
Is it worth the extra cost?
After purchasing a box of paper myself, I think so. The paper is an environmentally sound choice. It’s purchase supports wildlife conservation – something near and dear to my heart. Its quality is top-shelf: bright white, ink stays sharp and crisp, and it ‘feels’ good in the hand. I’ll be buying it again (in a couple of years after I get through these reams).
Your thoughts…
Do you think that purchasing environmentally certified paper will make a difference to the future of your outdoor activities or am I out to lunch on this one? Let me know in the comments below.
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