Papaerless’ often focuses on reducing office paper, but overlooks the environmental advantages of paper-based packaging. Both office and packaging paper come from sustainably sourced wood fibre, cultivated in regulated forestry cycles that balance planting, growth, harvesting and replanting. These managed forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, while the harvested wood products – like paper – store carbon.
Recycling further enhances paper’s environmental credentials, extending carbon storage and diverting waste from landfills. Recycled paper and cardboard supply fibres for packaging and tissue products, supporting livelihoods across the collection, logistics and recycling industries. In essence, paper is a renewable resource that meets consumer demand for sustainable products. The takeaway here is: don’t feel guilty about printing – just recycle responsibly, and use paper that carries forest certification symbols such as FSC and PEFC.
The unique appeal of print
Despite the convenience of e-readers, there’s something incomparable about the tactile experience of reading a physical book. Surveys show a strong preference for paper books over e-books worldwide, with Statista data highlighting print’s enduring dominance in several countries. This sensory-rich experience contributes to the ongoing popularity of printed books and magazines, despite the growth of digital media. Buying a paper book supports sustainable forestry as increased demand leads to more tree planting.
We don’t live in an ‘either/or’ world, there’s space for both digital and print. Many people prefer receiving digital invoices for ease of storage, yet choose to print documents for proofreading or frequent reference. When these are no longer needed, recycling them helps maintain paper’s sustainability cycle.
Print publications, such as newspapers and magazines, continue to prove their worth in a digital landscape. In fact, projections suggest that print will account for 75% of magazine industry revenues by 2026. This demonstrates a lasting market for high-quality print journalism and content. Paper and digital each serve unique purposes and can complement each other in a balanced way.
The digital divide
Access to digital platforms isn’t universal. South Africa’s Census 2022 shows that while Internet access has improved, around 13 million people still lack connectivity. These individuals rely on print and broadcast media for news and information, underscoring the ongoing necessity of non-digital channels. Over-reliance on digital resources risks excluding millions who lack Internet access.
In the digital era, print has evolved to offer unique, targeted brand experiences. Rather than focusing solely on mass communication, print today is leveraged to create tactile, memorable engagements. For instance, brands now combine print with digital innovation, using QR codes on promotional flyers, interactive shopping inserts or premium packaging to merge physical presence with digital connectivity. This combination allows print to stand out in a world flooded with online content.
Print may have changed over the years, but it’s far from dead. It’s evolving, fuelled by environmental responsibility, functionality and its unique ability to offer meaningful experiences. The future of print isn’t just about survival, but about thriving through a blend of innovation and sustainable practices. As digital saturation continues, print remains an irreplaceable medium that engages consumers in ways digital media simply can’t match.
