A: We use the PS green choices logo to identify products we carry that we consider to be environmentally friendly based on a variety of ecological factors. A product qualifies as a PS Green Choice if it is recycled with at least 30% post-consumer waste (PCW), or if it meets two or more of the following criteria:

• Responsible mill practices: paper produced by a mill that recognizes responsible, sustainable forestry as certified by objective 3rd parties
• Renewable content: paper that contains at least 20% renewable content, usually cotton or other plant fibers
• Renewable energy sources: product created using renewable energy sources-- hydro power or wind power
• PCF (processed chlorine —free): paper produced without the use of chlorine
• Handmade: paper that was made or printed by hand
• Made in the USA: product that was created and produced domestically

A: It actually started more than twenty years ago with the very inspiration for Paper Source — beautiful papers handcrafted purely from renewable fibers in local communities around the world. Paper Source has long since partnered with mills that adhere to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards, many of which fuel their processes via wind or hydro power. Ten years ago we introduced 100% recycled wrapping paper (although our customers weren't excited about it!), and we've always looked to find innovative ways to make use of leftover paper.

We're doing even more today because with increasing concern about preserving the earth's fragile eco-system, we recognize that our customers expect more. We're constantly seeking opportunities to improve our environmental stewardship. We've made big strides, and yet we recognize that there is so much more that we can do.

A: Yes! We're pleased to announce that we have begun transitioning our exclusive Paper Source custom color palette of envelopes and cards to recycled paper with at least 30% post-consumer waste (PCW), some of which is already arriving in stores. We are also printing many of our Paper Source-designed gift wrap and note sets on our new papers, Eco-White and Kraft "Paper Bag," which are 100% recycled with 30% post-consumer waste. In an effort to avoid waste, we will sell through every last bit of the old before bringing in the new recycled versions. So while we cannot yet guarantee that the individual envelope, card or sheet you purchase today is made with the new recycled content, know that the transition has begun, and we'll work tirelessly until it's complete!

A: The amount of recycled content in our recycled papers varies. Most contain at least 30% PCW, and some are up to 100% recycled.

A: The remaining percentage of content varies from virgin paper to things like pre-consumer recycled waste (clippings from the factory floor that never make it to consumers).

A: We are currently transitioning production of all papers in our exclusive PS color palette to recycled with at least 30% PCW. The journey to green will be faster for some colors than others, as we take special care to ensure that we can seamlessly marry recycled content with the aesthetic and color clarity you expect from us. Already, some of the colors, which have been produced with recycled paper for some time now, are making their way online and into our stores. In an effort to avoid waste, we're ensuring that we sell through every last bit of the old before bringing in the new. Know that the transition has begun, and we'll work tirelessly until it's complete!

A: When offering you green choices, it's very important to us that we don't compromise the aesthetic quality of our products. Whether we're using recycled or virgin content, the papermaking process is never a perfect science (it's also an art!), so variations in color do happen from time to time. But know that we are constantly working to ensure as much consistency as possible both in color and quality.

A: The new recycled papers are indeed suitable for printing with ink-jet and laser printers. As with all our papers, we recommend that you test compatibility with your printer before printing large quantities.

A: All of the Paper Source papers currently being produced are archival and acid-free. Our original version of "Paper Bag" was not acid-free, but we've since made improvements to make the current version acid-free and thus better for archival purposes. Though the original "Paper Bag" may still be found in stores and online, we are now only producing the new and improved acid-free version.

A: Though we've made strides toward being more environmentally friendly, we recognize that there is so much more that we can do. Looking ahead, you can expect to find more recycled product in our lineup, including papers for wedding invitations and everyday stationery. You can also expect more "green" in our operations, such as reuse of shipping boxes (look out for a sticker designating a reused box).