Recycled Paper

• This article highlights the role of paper recycling as a climate solution, focusing on the carbon dioxide released by the production of recycled paper versus the production of conventional, or virgin, paper.
• Students will learn about the processes used to produce both recycled and conventional paper, the energy and greenhouse gas emissions released during both processes, the financial implications of this climate solution, and predictions about global paper production and consumption.

Positives

• This resource provides a "What You Can Do" section that details some practical ideas for students to take action.
• The article is organized like a brief scientific paper, which can help increase comprehension.

Additional Prerequisites

• Preview this resource for vocabulary that is essential to understanding and might also require pre-teaching, such as gigaton, sequester, mitigation, or hydropulping.
• It may be helpful for students to have familiarity with the format of a scientific paper.

Differentiation

• Provide students with the opportunity to explore this table of solutions or other related solutions listed below the article, choosing another solution for comparison.
• As an extension activity, ask students to connect with community organizations to ensure that they are recycling paper and see what supports they need to get started if they are not.
• Using the links provided within this resource, give students the opportunity to compare the recycling of other materials, including metals and plastics.
• Compare the research results presented in this resource with information about the effectiveness of recycling plastics and other materials, as discussed in this podcast, which explores whether recycling certain items is effective or counterproductive.
• Pair students up to have them discuss what role electronic media might play in the future of the paper industry, using reasons and evidence to support opinions.
• Consider having students participate in an activity where they learn about paper recycling by using old paper to make new seed paper.

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.