The Future of Paper

Since the 1970’s, people have fantasized a future of the paperless office. Thirty some years later, it is estimated that paper usage in American offices have actually doubled. Despite the technological advancements that many predicted would eliminate the use of paper, our tools only served to fuel its abuse. Today, paper accounts for a quarter of our landfills and its production ranks fourth as the largest contributor to green house gas emissions. Perhaps these horrifying stats are open to political and scientific debate, but the truth of the matter is - paper is here to stay. So the real question becomes, what form will paper take in the future?

Paper and Technology

As unremarkable as a tree based paper may seem today, it was once an incredible technological advancement that revolutionized books. Paper books are portable, wireless, and readily compatible with all shelving units. You can’t say the same for most computer hardware or software. The next leap in the evolution of paper will reduce if not completely remove the use of plant matter all together.

Ebook Readers and Other Digital Devices

Ebook readers (iLiad from iRex Technologies, the QUE ProReader from Plastic Logic, and competing devices make it possible to conveniently carry dozens of book at a time. Although not exclusively an ebooks'>audio books that's very popular with commuters.

'''Digital Paper'''

Not to be confused with USB dock. The pen can also play back the recorded audio that is synced up with the written content. If you like to eliminate the paper factor completely, consider investing in a the compatible computer software.

Reusable Paper

Many paper companies such as Xerox are developing printing paper prototypes that can be reused. These papers are light or heat sensitive so that the content can be erased or dissipate naturally, then reused in printing machines. !

Paper and Lifestyle

Our civilized lives are wrapped in paper (lame pun intended). Unfortunately, Mother Nature’s regenerative speed simply cannot keep up with our demand for the virgin wood pulp used to make common paper. One very tangible solution for us consumers would be to use more recycled paper. While tabloid) is the obvious product that comes to mind, designers have transformed recycled papers in some very innovative products.

Paper for the Home

While it may not surprise you that Ideas for Recycling Paper Though we all like to think that our bundling up newspapers and dropping them into our biodegradable writing tools.

Handmade Paper

Making paper was once cutting edge technology, but today few people know how to make paper by hand. The art of chemical free hand paper making can be revived in your own home with the use of a stationery sets, and more.

For artists and craftsmen:

* Strathmore * Kate Spade * Canson

For office or professional use:

* Avery * Crane & Co. * Kleenex * Kimwipes