Paper & Board: Ecological & Social Footprint
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 2.3.1
Ecological and Social Footprint
It is important to know and understand the social and ecological footprint that is left behind when papers and boards are produced.
Deforestation
- The deforestation of trees is an ongoing concern in the fight against global warming.
- Trees are being cut down to be used for paper and boards.
- It is important to ensure that proper management and sustainable use of forests are occurring at every stage in the production of paper and boards.
- Recycling can solve the issue of deforestation and costs are reduced in the long run.
Shipping costs
- Paper is commonly produced in large manufacturing-based companies such as in the USA.
- The International Paper Company produces paper for nearly all continents, including Europe.
- This puts huge costs on shipping and fuelling as the paper has to travel all the way around the world to arrive in shops that are convenient for the customer.
Landfill
- Due to a lack of education on recycling and reusing, the paper is often found on landfill sites.
- These sites destroy habitats and visually pollutes the land.
Test yourself on Paper & Board: Ecological & Social Footprint
Which company produces paper for nearly all continents including Europe?