When it comes to sustainability in packaging and printed products, paper receipts are often misunderstood. In reality, today’s paper receipts are a responsible choice—produced from renewable resources, recyclable, and part of a circular economy that supports both environmental and economic goals.

Renewable and Responsibly Sourced Materials

Sustainability starts at the source. For paper receipts, that source is responsibly managed forests. Thanks to responsible forest management, U.S. forests are thriving. In fact, U.S. forestland has grown by approximately 18 million acres between 1990 and 2020, and less than 2% of forestland is harvested annually, according to Two Sides North America. Of the wood harvested, only about 38% is used for paper products. The remaining forestland continues to serve as an important carbon sink, helping to mitigate climate change by capturing and storing carbon dioxide.

A Sustainable and Low-Carbon Choice

The U.S. paper industry is a leader in sustainable manufacturing and environmentally responsible production. The American Forest & Paper Association notes that about 80% of U.S. paper mills use recycled fiber to produce renewable products like office paper, books, and magazines. Likewise, paper receipts are made from renewable wood fiber sourced from responsibly managed forests. The industry has made major strides in reducing its carbon footprint. Today, the U.S. pulp and paper industry contributes only about 1% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, thanks in large part to the use of carbon-neutral biomass, which supplies about 64% of the energy needs at U.S. pulp and paper mills.

Additionally, recycling plays a key role in further reducing environmental impacts. Paper and paperboard are recycled more than any other material in the United States, helping avoid greenhouse gas emissions that would occur if paper were landfilled. In 2018 alone, recycling lowered U.S. greenhouse gases by 155 million metric tons of CO2e, equivalent to taking over 33 million cars off the road for an entire year. (Two Sides North America)

Recyclable and Sustainable Receipt Design
Another often-overlooked aspect of sustainability is the design of receipt products themselves. For example:

• Plastic Cores: Many paper receipt rolls now use recyclable mono-material plastic cores instead of traditional fiber cores with glue, making them easier to recycle by reducing adhesive contamination.
• Paper Content: The paper used in receipts is recyclable in many local recycling programs, depending on regional capabilities and guidelines. In addition, third-party certifications help verify the recyclability of certain paper products, supporting industry efforts to improve end-of-life outcomes.

A Thoughtful Choice

Paper receipts remain an essential tool for businesses and consumers alike, providing a tangible, secure record of transactions, while supporting a responsible and renewable material supply chain. As the industry continues to innovate, PRCA members remain committed to sustainable manufacturing practices and ongoing improvements in product design and recycling.

When you choose paper, you’re supporting an industry that’s rooted in renewable resources, advancing low-carbon manufacturing, and dedicated to environmental stewardship.