Figures used in the 'PaperCutz 4 Planet Ark' Campaign
Environmental impact estimates for the ‘PaperCutz 4 Planet Ark’ campaign have been made using data available from the Environmental Defense Fund Paper Calculator. For more information visit www.edf.org/papercalculator
In the absence of detailed, publicly available data for Australia we have referenced the above calculator throughout our campaign.
The following figures are used to show how changing from paper-based communications to electronic document delivery and presentation can help reduce paper consumption and quantify the associated reduction in environmental impacts.
On average, each tonne of paper removed from commercial correspondence saves:
- 18 trees1
- 67,500 litres of water4
- 9,500 kWh of power2
- 3,300 kg of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e)3
Comparisons are based on national averages for pulp composition and bleaching technologies. The results assume that there is a 0% recycled content and paper is derived from the USA. The paper selected is coated groundwood, the type used in annual reports, magazines and product disclosure statements.
The results are estimates and will vary depending on the origin of the paper and recycled content.
1 The number of typical trees assumes a mix of hardwoods and softwoods 15-20cm in diameter and 12 metres tall.
2 The Paper Calculator includes an energy credit for energy that is created by burning paper – or the methane that decomposing paper creates – at the end of its life. The Net Energy takes the total amount of energy required to make the paper over its life cycle, and subtracts this energy credit. If most of the energy used to make the paper is purchased, then the energy credit might make the Net Energy lower than the Purchased Energy. A 100 watt bulb left on for 10hrs will consume 1kWh (kilowatt hour) of electricity.
We have estimated that the average Australian household will consume the equivalent of 14,700 kWh of energy over a year.
3 Greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2) from burning fossil fuels and methane from paper decomposing in landfills. The unit of measure is CO2 equivalents or CO2e.
We have estimated that the average Australian Car could travel 15,000km over a year, consume 10l/100km and generate 3,600 kg of CO2e
4 Wastewater measures the amount of process water that is treated and discharged to a mill’s receiving waters. Wastewater volume indicates both the amount of fresh water needed in production and the potential impact of wastewater discharges on the receiving waters.
We have estimated that the average large domestic swimming pool will hold 66,000 litres of water