Not so long ago, white paper and envelopes were only white because the paper that was used was made white by chlorine bleach. This bleach was making its way into aquifers via streams and rivers, and helping to damage the eco-system.
The practice of using chlorine in the manufacture of paper, envelopes, toilet paper and the like has almost ceased in the Western world and totally chlorine-free paper can be purchased or a grade that uses much less chlorine, called elementary chlorine-free paper.
There are hundred of types of paper today all designed for a different purpose. 100% recycled paper, although it may cost slightly more, is a sensible choice for the consumer. This eco-friendly paper comes in standard sizes and colors, with coordinating envelopes, and it is impossible to tell the difference between eco-friendly paper and the old chlorine bleached paper. The grade of any paper is determined by its individual properties – how well it absorbs ink, on one end of the scale to artist paper’s ability to absorb watercolors and oil-based paints.
Your office supplies shop will usually carry acid-free paper, which is generally used to preserve older prints, drawings and art. They will also carry tissue paper for wrapping, gift wrapping paper, and envelopes designed for different purposes, many made from re-cycled paper.
