The Paper Calculator

The Paper Calculator is a web-based tool that enables companies, communities, schools, NGOs and other organizations to understand and improve their paper use. Developed by Environmental Defense, the Paper Calculator calculates the U.S. average energy and wood consumption and environmental releases of different paper types across their full lifecycle. For each of thirteen major grades of paper and paperboard, it allows the user to compare the environmental impacts of papers made with different levels of recycled content, ranging from 0% (virgin paper) to 100%. It also allows the user to see how using less paper or changing other specifications can reduce environmental impacts. The Paper Calculator can compare individual papers, or groups of papers. Finally, the Paper Calculator generates easy-to-read reports that help communicate the environmental benefits of better paper choices.