PAMSA
PAMSA
  • About PAMSA
    • Members
    • Executive Team
    • Operational Team
    • Partnerships & Associations
    • Fibre Circle
  • The Paper Story
    • The Economic Story
      • Production Statistics
      • Map of member operations
      • Fibre-based Products
    • The Sustainability Story
      • Climate Change
      • Energy
      • Water
    • The Recycling Story
      • Paper recycling in SA
      • Improving recycling through education
      • Design for Recycling
      • www.recyclepaper.co.za
    • The Education Story
      • Education & Training Support
      • Book Development
    • The Research Story
      • Blue Sky Young Researchers Innovation Awards 2020-2021
      • Masters of Engineering Bursary Programme
      • PRU Research Archive
  • Resources
    • COVID-19 information
    • News
    • Brochures & Publications
    • Videos
    • Infographic
    • Printables
    • eClassroom sponsored content
    • Members only
    • TAPPSA Archive
  • Contact Us

CONTACT US

PAPER MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Tel: +27 (0) 11 803 5063
Fax: +27 (0) 11 803 6708
Email: Info

PAMSA DOES NOT SELL, SUPPLY OR DISTRIBUTE PAPER PRODUCTS. PLEASE CONTACT OUR MEMBERS DIRECTLY FOR SUPPLY, QUOTATIONS OR SALES ENQUIRIES BY CLICKING HERE: Members

PHYSICAL ADDRESS:
Unit 4, Woodview Office Park
1 Humber Road
Woodmead, Sandton

POSTAL ADDRESS:
PO Box 1553
Rivonia 2128

PAMSA-StoryTeller
Like 0 Thanks! You've already liked this
Latest News & Features

Cut the greenwash. Get the facts straight about paper and recycling.

SAMANTHA CHOLES, Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa

Abraham Lincoln once said, “Don’t believe everything you read on the Internet.”

I recently drew cash at an ATM and was greeted with an on-screen message: “If everyone said no to a receipt just for one month, we would save 45 trees.” This is a classic example of greenwashing: making unsubstantiated or misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product, service, technology or company practice.

These green claims often have no scientific basis to them – environmental myths have been published so often on the internet that they are deemed as facts.

Companies would prefer that you did not print the receipt because it saves them money. 

You may have been encouraged “save the planet” by opting to receive bills or magazines electronically. Again, this is a cost-saving measure, and a practical one considering the state of our local postal system (and the associated carbon footprint); but instead companies “greenwash” it by saying you’re saving trees.

Personally, I prefer to receive bills online because it’s just more convenient (not greener) – and I’m the world’s worst filer – or the world’s best piler. But give me a printed magazine over a digi-mag with page-turning sound effects any day!

The most common form of greenwash is that little footer at the bottom of emails – “think before you print”. If you need to print it, print it. And re-use it or recycle it once it’s been dealt with. If you’re going to be referring to something regularly, print it out and file it. Every time you open a document, your computer or device consumes energy – and in South Africa, we haven’t quite got the energy mix on the greener side just yet, that’s if we have any at all.

Facts about forestry and farmed trees

Statements about saving trees by not printing are blatantly untrue. Firstly, the fibre for our paper and wood products is not sourced from from indigenous forests or rainforests (we don’t have rainforests in South Africa).

Paper along with a myriad of wood-, paper- and tissue-based items are made from farmed trees, and recycled paper (which came from trees in the first place). Certain species of trees are planted in crops in South Africa specifically for the paper and wood industries, with a small percentage harvested for use each year which are then replanted within the same year.  This is VERY different to deforestation which is the denuding of forested land for the likes of urban development (shopping mall, our homes, office parks) and agriculture.

Plantations are also not irrigated – they get their water from rain and groundwater and the sector even pays a “rain tax” – or streamflow reduction levy.

This make trees – and anything made from them – a renewable resource. Have you ever been asked to eat less carrots or cabbage to save the vegetable farm? No, you are supporting farmers by eating their produce.

Cut the greenwash. Get the facts straight about paper and recycling.

Recycling paper does not save trees

Stating that your company has saved X number of trees because you’ve implemented a paper recycling programme is also misguided. As trees are farmed for the purpose of making paper, they do not need to be saved.

Paper recycling is important for other reasons. It diverts a useful material from landfill which paper, packaging and tissue manufacturers re-use to make stuff you use every day.

The recycling of one tonne of “paper does not save 17 pine trees” but it will save around three cubic metres of landfill space and that is something to be proud of. And it keeps the carbon in the paper fibre (absorbed from the air by the tree) locked up for longer.

Cut the greenwash. Get the facts straight about paper and recycling.

One person’s waste is another’s treasure

Paper recycling – from the collection and buy-back centres to the reprocessing and manufacturing into new products – also sustains local jobs.

Recycling reclaimers and waste pickers have helped to increase the collection of hard-to-get post-consumer waste, especially office paper, which is why keeping your paper recycling separate and dry is better for them – they get more for cleaner paper.

In 2018, 71.7% of recoverable paper – 1.285 million tonnes of documents, newspaper, magazines, cardboard boxes of countless kinds, and milk and juice cartons – was diverted from landfills for re-use.

Using recycled printer paper is not necessarily greener

Recycled printing and copy paper is not made in South Africa – this is imported, carrying an additional carbon footprint. Companies should be purchasing locally made copy paper. There are two well-known South African brands, both of which are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) as sustainably produced.

So consider the environment before you greenwash your marketing claims.

But make a noise about using locally produced paper, your successful recycling programme and that you are supporting informal collectors or small businesses by making their paper and other recyclables available to them.

PAMSA Blue Sky Awards New research reveals a love for print – but environmental myths persist
Corporate, Commercial and Lifestyle Photography
Latest News & Features

Drive to increase recycling of beverage cartons

Women-in-Science-at-Sappi
Latest News & Features

Celebrating International Day of Women in Science at Sappi

Sappi achieves 1
Latest News & Features

Sappi achieves first international PEFC Forest Certification in South Africa

Recent News

  • Drive to increase recycling of beverage cartons
  • Celebrating International Day of Women in Science at Sappi

Facts & Resources

Subscribe to our newsletter
Production statistics
Infographic
Publications
Videos
Printables

Latest Tweets

Tweets by paperrocksza

Instagram

paperrocksza

Paper Assoc. of South Africa
It’s official. You’ve inspired us, inspired ot It’s official. You’ve inspired us, inspired others, and shared  positivity with our fellow South Africans. Thank you, your contributions have been truly inspirational!

We have selected a winner. If you entered our #2021PositivityChallenge, check your inbox! You could just be the lucky winner.
Did you feel the chill in the air this morning? Did you feel the chill in the air this morning? 

Well, March 1 typically signifies the start of Autumn in South Africa, and other southern hemisphere countries. Take time to admire and observe the changing colours around you.

“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.” Jim Bishop

#autumn
3 days to go! You have three days left to share y 3 days to go!

You have three days left to share your inspiring, positive and action provoking vision board with us. 

Don't forget to follow these steps to be included in our selection process for a winner:
1. Follow us and @epsonsouthafrica.
2. Post a photo of your vision board comprising print and paper items, and tag us and @epsonsouthafrica.
3. Share it to your stories and tag us. 
4. Share your vision board with an accountability partner by tagging them.

T&Cs apply: http://ow.ly/7qkj50DyK5s

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
In an always-on, ever-connected world, paper and p In an always-on, ever-connected world, paper and print can help us unplug and unwind. Take a few moments to show us what inspires you, keeps you going when the going gets tough, and how you use paper, print, images and ink as a reminder of what’s truly important. 

You have five days left to go for you to post your vision boards!

1. Follow @paperrocksza and @epsonsouthafrica
2. Post a photo of your vision board comprising print and paper items, and tag us and @epsonsouthafrica.
3. Share it to your stories and tag both accounts. 
4. Don’t forget to share the love by tagging a friend 

Wondering what you’ll win? R4,000.00 in prizes: an Epson L3150 printer, a box of Mondi Rotatrim office paper, three beautiful notepads and a planner jotter from @script_designs, a R500 from @the_counter and some other paper goodies.

T&Cs apply: Link in bio

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
If you've racked your brain thinking of ideas for If you've racked your brain thinking of ideas for your vision board so you can enter our #PositivityChallenge, here are a few we've thought of: your child’s first school art, your Matric results or your study goals for 2021. 

Did you know that you're 1.4 times more likely to succeed by just committing your goals to paper? Happy first steps to success!

Remember to:
1. Follow us and @epsonsouthafrica.
2. Post a photo of your vision board comprising print and paper items, and tag us and @epsonsouthafrica.
3. Share it to your stories and tag both accounts. 
4. Share the love by tagging a friend 

You could potentially win R4 000 in prizes: an Epson L3150 printer, a box of Mondi Rotatrim office paper, three beautiful notepads and a planner jotter from @script_designs, a R500 voucher from @the_counter and some other paper goodies.

T&Cs apply: Link in bio

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
We have the perfect excuse for you to wind down to We have the perfect excuse for you to wind down today, and it's super easy! Just cut, pin-up, snap a pic and stand a change to win. 

Only seven days to be a #PositivityChallenge winner! Keep sharing your vision boards. 

T&Cs apply: Link in bio

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
Have you created your vision board yet? Not sure w Have you created your vision board yet? Not sure what to include? What about those favourite birthday cards that you’ve stashed away? Your side hustle idea on the back of a serviette or some old photos? 

Paper and print can preserve memories, encourage us through printed messages, allow us full creative expression or even inspire us to action. 

What's on your vision board? 
Follow these steps to share what keeps you amped up and stand a chance to win:
1. Follow us and @epsonsouthafrica.
2. Post a photo of your vision board comprising print and paper items, and tag us and @epsonsouthafrica. 
3. Share it to your stories and tag both accounts. 
4. Don’t forget to share the love by tagging a friend 

Other than visually expressing and inspiring yourself and others, you could walk away with R4,000.00 in prizes: an Epson L3150 printer, a box of Mondi Rotatrim office paper, three beautiful notepads and a planner jotter from @script_designs, a R500 voucher from @the_counter and some other paper goodies.

Ts & Cs apply - link in bio

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
Paper and print can motivate us by reminding us of Paper and print can motivate us by reminding us of where we are headed or even where we’ve been – it motivates us through colour, with words, through images, and ink.

What motivates you? 

Share your vision board, ideas wall, or your pinboard. Share your hope and inspiration with us. How do you use paper, print, images and ink to map out your goals or revisit special moments?

To stand a chance to win our special #PositivityChallenge prize:
1. Follow us and @epsonsouthafrica
2. Post a photo of your vision board comprising print and paper items, and tag us and @epsonsouthafrica.
3. Share it to your stories and tag both accounts. 
4. Don’t forget to share the love by tagging a friend 

You might be the lucky winner who walks away with R4,000.00 in prizes. What's included? An Epson L3150 printer, a box of Mondi Rotatrim office paper, three beautiful notepads and a planner jotter from @script_designs, a R500 voucher from @the_counter and some other paper goodies.

T&Cs apply: Link in bio 

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
Do you have a vision board? If not, why not start Do you have a vision board? If not, why not start one and be part of our #PositivityChallenge in collaboration with @epsonsouthafrica? 

Share your vision board, ideas wall, or your pinboard with us – it could be on your bedroom wall, above your desk or on the fridge. Show us how you use paper, print, images and ink to map out your goals or revisit special moments for a positive mind and life. 

To participate in our challenge and stand a chance to win R4,000.00 in prizes, follow these easy steps; 
1. Follow us and @epsonsouthafrica.
2. Post a photo of your vision board comprising print and paper items, and tag us and @epsonsouthafrica.
3. Share it to your stories and tag both accounts. 
4. Don’t forget to share the love by tagging a friend 

The reward for sharing your positivity? R4,000.00 in prizes: an Epson L3150 printer, a box of Mondi Rotatrim office paper, three beautiful notepads and a planner jotter from @script_designs, a R500 voucher from @the_counter and some other paper goodies. 

T&Cs apply - link in bio

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge #paper
We have partnered with @EpsonSouthAfrica to add a We have partnered with @EpsonSouthAfrica to add a bit of colour and a lot of positivity to the remaining months of 2021. Look out for tomorrow’s post to see how you can stand the chance to win over R4,000.00 in prizes.

#In2021 #Inspired #paper #print #inspiredtoprint #visionboard #goals #colour #getcreative #PaperAndPrint #EpsonPrinter #thepaperstory #PositivityChallenge #2021PositivityChallenge
Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday, a traditional feast Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday, a traditional feast day before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday, was the last opportunity to use up eggs and fats before embarking on the Lenten fast of 40 days leading up to Easter. Turns out that pancakes are the perfect way of using up these ingredients! 

We're glad that our product - paper - is a part of this feast too! In recipes, egg boxes and paper packaging... 

Pass the syrup, please.

#shrovetuesday #pancakes #pancakeday #thepaperstory #paper 

Photo by @devinlesterstudios
Women account for less than 30% of researchers wor Women account for less than 30% of researchers worldwide while UNESCO data suggests that only about 30% of all female students choose science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields at a tertiary level. 

Today, on #InternationalDayofWomenandGirlsinScience, we acknowledge the many women in our sector who are making a difference using a renewable resource - farmed trees and farmed wood - to make our lives better, our jobs easier and our world more sustainable.

VIDEO - Link in bio.

#STEM #science #womeninscience #technology #engineering #maths #mathematics #forestry #pulp #paper
A reminder that packaging matters, and that #pizza A reminder that packaging matters, and that #pizzaboxes are recyclable! #nationalpizzaday #recycling #cardboard #packaging
Happy reading! Whether it's World Read Aloud Day, Happy reading! Whether it's World Read Aloud Day, the weekend or a weekday, reading makes everything better - except reading bad news! Add some cheer and delight with a good book; even better if that book is made from paper. Here are some of our favourites.
It's #WorldReadAloudDay tomorrow (5 February). Wha It's #WorldReadAloudDay tomorrow (5 February). What are you going to be reading aloud for the #wradchallenge2021. The Gruffalo by #JuliaDonaldson, or The Wonky Donkey by @thewonkydonkeyman? What about something scrumdiddlyumptious from The BFG by #RoaldDahl? Either way, reading aloud is so important as children learn from seeing and hearing. Get them in on the action and have them read a paragraph or get the littlies to point out words or letters they know. 

#books #reading #lovebooks #mustlovereading #mustlovebooks

Photo by @devinlesterstudios
Does papermaking cause deforestation? We get ask Does papermaking cause deforestation? 

We get asked this question a lot. The simple answer is no. In South Africa, trees are grown in sustainable rotations and only a small percentage (less than 10%) of the total area harvested each year. Harvested plots will be replanted with new trees in the same year, making the process sustainable with thousands of hectares of trees of different ages growing all the time. 

This is VERY different to deforestation which is the removal of trees - without replanting - for the likes of urban development (shopping malls, our homes, office parks) and agriculture. 

#environment #forestry #sustainableforestry #paper
It's #InternationalFlowerDay. Who doesn't love flo It's #InternationalFlowerDay. Who doesn't love flowers? 

Brighten someone's day by sharing one of these images or tagging them in the comments.
From us to you, we wish you a blessed break howeve From us to you, we wish you a blessed break however you will be celebrating. Be safe. Thank you for your support in 2020. See you on the flip side.
It's #WorldToiletDay. Next time you flush, give th It's #WorldToiletDay. Next time you flush, give thanks. Some 4.2 billion people are currently living without access to safely managed sanitation. While you're at it, give thanks for #toiletpaper too.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
www.worldtoiletday.info⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#sanitation #water #health #humanrights #toilets #toilet
Hands up who has a pile of books this high next to Hands up who has a pile of books this high next to their bed?  What's at the top?⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#reading #bookquotes #bookday #writerswrite #readmore #bookclub #thepaperstory #readersread #instabook #authors #bedsidebooks #lovebooks #paperbooks #realbooks #print #printisalive #library⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Photo by @devinlesterstudios
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Facebook

Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa
© PAMSA 2021
Site designed by IMS