Understanding Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certification and Better Printing Practices
At Graphic Sky Printing, we care about quality—and sustainability. One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Why don't you stock more recycled papers?”
The answer might surprise you.
Recycled Paper: What It Is (and Isn’t)
Recycled paper is made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste—paper that’s been used, collected, and reprocessed into new sheets.
While this sounds ideal, there are trade-offs:
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Not all recycled paper is 100% recycled—many contain only 10–30% post-consumer content.
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Energy and water usage in the recycling process can still be significant, driving up the cost of the paper.
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Whiteness and print quality may be lower depending on the blend and production methods.
Recycled paper can be a great option—but it’s not always the cleanest or most sustainable choice.
Sustainably Sourced Paper: FSC® Certified and Forest-Friendly
Sustainably sourced paper is made from virgin fiber harvested responsibly—with a focus on protecting forests, wildlife, and communities. The most trusted certification?
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
FSC-certified paper guarantees:
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Trees are harvested legally and responsibly
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Forests are replanted or naturally regenerated
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Local communities and Indigenous rights are respected
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Entire ecosystems (not just trees) are protected
Unlike generic “sustainable” claims, FSC® is internationally recognized and rigorously verified.
Why FSC® Certified Paper Is Often the Better Choice
Recycled content is part of the picture—but sustainable forest management ensures we don’t deplete natural resources to begin with. FSC-certified paper:
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Preserves biodiversity and forest health
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Reduces deforestation and illegal logging
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Supports responsible forestry jobs and communities
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Is available in high-quality, print-friendly options with reliable performance
What We Recommend at Graphic Sky Printing
We offer a range of FSC-certified stocks and can source recycled options upon request. For most jobs, we recommend FSC-certified virgin fiber papers for the best balance of quality, sustainability, and consistency.
If you want help choosing the most environmentally responsible option for your next print project, just ask. We're happy to walk you through it. For more information about sustainably sourced papers visit https://fsc.org/en.
Let’s Print Better
Choosing the right paper isn't just about texture and weight—it's about impact. With FSC-certified stocks, you're printing with purpose.
Order online or get in touch at graphicsky.com to learn more about our sustainable paper options.
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