Paper is all around us: wrappers, boxes, napkins, stationery and office supplies, and that’s just to mention a few examples. Depending on the purpose of paper, its life cycle can vary. A book’s life cycle is much longer than that of a wrapper, while other types of paper such as thermal fax paper cannot be recycled at all. The cycle of paper is, therefore, very short sometimes.
The invention of paper dates from the 2nd century A.D., and it was introduced to Japanese culture about 500 years later. It only spread to Europe and America after the 10th century.
Before paper, other types of writing materials were used, such as parchment. Parchment as the primary writing medium was replaced by tree bark or dried palm leaves in some civilizations. For instance, the oldest Buddhist manuscripts and many Russian documents from the Middle Ages are written on birch bark.
The diffusion of paper was a major landmark in the history of writing, making it easier and less expensive. Paper was also a better option in terms of resistance, and it was paramount for the later development of printing press.
Nowadays the use paper is still widespread, and we can hardly imagine our lives without it. However, communications have evolved into new formats and paper is no longer as relevant as speed and cost-effectiveness. The implementation of paperless electronic communications is a crucial step in back office management when it comes to improving processes while saving time and money.
Changing from traditional paper communications to electronic communications’ means we will no longer need so much paper. What are you planning to do now with your spare paper? How about origami? Join us here.
#andgopaperless