I think this story is important, because MEC not only used the greenest paper on the market, but actively worked to develop an even better model. This is a good example of how companies can use their market clout – in this case, MEC had to buy a lot of paper for its catalogue run – to bring about greener product availability. Domtar is a huge paper company, and for MEC to convince it to offer this product is a positive impact.

Even though our print runs are relatively small, we try to actively drive change, rather than accept what’s currently on the market. When we wanted a more ecologically sustainable paper than any we could source. We asked our paper broker, New Leaf Paper, for help in developing one, and they worked with Domtar to create Domtar EarthCote™. Since its initial use for our 2006 catalogues, the post-consumer waste content has increased from 35 to 40%. That saves fully grown trees, reduces greenhouse gases, energy use, water consumption, and waste. The recycled paper is made without chlorine or chlorine derivatives, which can form dioxins and other toxic waste materials. EarthCote is also certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), a non-profit organization that ensures the new wood content comes from well-managed, sustainable forests. We continue to work with New Leaf and Domtar to increase the post-consumer waste content of available papers.

Equally exciting, the three-year process to develop EarthCote inspired an entire new line of ecological papers, Domtar’s EarthChoice® line. This makes it possible for an ever-increasing range of users to go green in their paper choices. EarthChoice papers are endorsed by the Rainforest Alliance and supported by ForestEthics and World Wildlife Fund Canada

More info