Preprinted papers such as letterhead must be able to withstand temperatures up to 230°C (446°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions.

Using recycled paper

As an environmentally conscientious company, we support the use of recycled paper produced specifically for use in laser (electro-photographic) printers.

While no blanket statement can be made that all recycled paper will feed well, we consistently test papers that represent recycled cut size copier papers available on the global market. This scientific testing is conducted with rigor and discipline. Many factors are taken into consideration both separately and as a whole, including the following:

•Amount of post-consumer waste (We test up to 100% post-consumer waste content.)

•Temperature and humidity conditions (Testing chambers simulate climates from all over the world.)

•Moisture content (Business papers should have low moisture: 4–5%.)

•Bending resistance and proper stiffness means optimum feeding through the printer.

•Thickness (impacts how much can be loaded into a tray)

•Surface roughness (measured in Sheffield units, impacts print clarity and how well toner fuses to the paper)

•Surface friction (determines how easily sheets can be separated)

•Grain and formation (impacts curling, which also influences the mechanics of how the paper behaves as it moves through the printer)

•Brightness and texture (look and feel)

Recycled papers are better than ever; however, the amount of recycled content in a paper affects the degree of control over foreign matter. And while recycled papers are one good path to printing in an environmentally responsible manner, they are not perfect. The energy required to de-ink and deal with additives such as colorants and “glue” often generates more carbon emissions than does normal paper production. However, using recycled papers enables better resource management overall.

We concern ourselves with the responsible use of paper in general based on life cycle assessments of its products. To gain a better understanding of the impact of printers on the environment, the company commissioned a number of life cycle assessments and found that paper was identified as the primary contributor (up to 80%) of carbon emissions caused throughout the entire life of a device (from design to end-of-life). This is due to the energy-intensive manufacturing processes required to make paper.

Thus, we seek to educate customers and partners on minimizing the impact of paper. Using recycled paper is one way. Eliminating excessive and unnecessary paper consumption is another. We are well-equipped to help customers minimize printing and copying waste. In addition, the company encourages purchasing paper from suppliers who demonstrate their commitment to sustainable forestry practices.

We do not endorse specific suppliers, although a converter’s product list for special applications is maintained. However, the following paper choice guidelines will help alleviate the environmental impact of printing:

1Minimize paper consumption.

2Be selective about the origin of wood fiber. Buy from suppliers who carry certifications such as the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) or The Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). These certifications guarantee that the paper manufacturer uses wood pulp from forestry operators that employ environmentally and socially responsible forest management and restoration practices.

3Choose the most appropriate paper for printing needs: normal 75 or 80 g/m2 certified paper, lower weight paper, or recycled paper.

Paper and specialty media guidelines

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