Industry Track Record
Driver of the U.S. Economy
The mail-related industry is a strong part of the U.S. economy, providing 8 million jobs and $1 trillion in annual sales.* *** Approximately $5.3 billion worth of paper is used in the postal system every year. Do Not Mail legislation would significantly affect International Paper, our customers, and groups like realtors and local businesses who rely on direct mail to grow their customer base.
At International Paper we are proud that more than 10% of what’s in your mail box is printed on our products. We’re taking this campaign very seriously.
Benefits of Direct Mail
The direct mail industry is an important driver of the U.S. economy. In 2007, advertising mail contributed more than $1 trillion in sales to the economy and played a critical role in the success of enterprises large and small.
Direct mail:
- Is an efficient, sustainable and effective method of reaching target audiences about new products and services.
- Gives consumers a convenient marketplace and an easy connection to local goods and services.
- Provides significant necessary revenues that help fund the services offered by local post offices.
For more information, visit the Direct Marketing Association Web site.
Recycling rates
In 2007, 56 percent of the paper consumed in the U.S. was recovered for recycling. This impressive figure equals nearly 360 pounds for each man, woman, and child in America. Visit AF&PA’s Web site to learn more about recycling. For more statistics, visit the Paper Industry Association Council Web Site.
Environmental Impact of Direct Mail
It is important to remember that paper is a biodegradable product based on a renewable resource that is grown in an increasingly sustainable manner. While the paper industry does not discount the importance of reducing the 5 million tons of mail-related paper that enter the waste stream each year through increased recycling, it is important to keep this issue in perspective. Contrast the 5 million tons of mail waste each year with the 2 billion tons of agricultural waste or the 7.6 billion tons of industrial waste and you'll see that paper as a waste stream problem is small in comparison.** More importantly, paper waste presents a short term landfill problem, not a long term environmental hazard.
State of the Forests
America’s forests are their most abundant in years. In fact, there are 12 million more acres of forests in the U.S. today than 20 years ago. The U.S. forest product industry plants more than 1.7 million trees every single day and is committed to managing them through sustainable practices.***
Full State of the Forest Report
* Direct Marketing Association
** EPA
*** Abundant Forest Alliance
**** EMA Foundation's IPS Team
We welcome your feedback. Please contact julie.alsup@ipaper.com.
