When is the last time you handwrote a letter?
Or opted for the paperback text when an eBook was available?
Technology has provisioned a way for us to rely less on natural recourses. In a day in age where everyone owns a laptop, tablet, Smartphone, or access to a desktop, our reliance on paper is dwindling.
The word paper is derived from the Egyptian word papyrus. Papyrus is a palm tree looking plant that is made primarily of grasses and leaves, not wood. Before the 20th century it was the primary source of all the paper products in the world. According to Ecology.com “nearly 4 billion trees or 35% of the total trees cut around the world are used in paper industries on every continent.” On top of this grueling number add the fact that each year tons of highly toxic chemicals such as methanol, hydrochloric acid, and formaldehyde are released into the air and water from paper mills all over the world. These chemicals release into the surrounding environment, and air and expose not only humans; but plant and wildlife also.
Of course we have grown accustomed to having it, so how do we lower our dependence on it?
Paper made of plants and grasses requires less processing than wood-derived paper. Plants such hemp and switch grass can be grown almost, and make excellent paper. The process of making paper out of these plants is also cheaper than wood pulp.
So, why do you think we are still using wood for paper?
I think we still use wood for paper because we're creatures of habit. I think once people find something, regardless of effect, that works for them, they stick to it. It would take a large demonstration and an even greater work group to attempt to get paper makers to see it any other way. Can it be done? Of course it can. However, would people really get behind that cause? Who knows... all it takes is for one group to knock over the first domino.
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