Paper Grades — Refocusing on Recycled
—Carolyn R. Bak
Completely Tree-Free
Looking to save a tree and produce a high-quality, distinguished annual report? Look no further. Unicorp Paper Industries, of Placentia, CA, has introduced Impressions Gloss, reportedly the world's first tree-free coated paper.
The Impressions Gloss line of premium coated papers is manufactured using high-quality bamboo pulp. The tropical grass fiber, grown in northern Thailand, has no bark, making it easier to process than trees. Additionally, bamboo is the second-fastest growing plant, with the ability to reach maturity within four years, and the capability to reach heights in excess of 100 feet.
The manner in which bamboo is cut benefits the ecosystem and reduces reforestation costs. Each plant produces about five new shoots per year—which are ready to cut in approximately four years. By cutting only the oldest shoots of each plant, the rest remains to flourish and regenerate—bamboo can survive and produce shoots for as long as 100 years.
The result? Fine-quality coated paper, perfect for a variety of uses including annual reports, brochures, catalogs, calendars, posters and more. Impressions Gloss is said to be a premium No. 1 coated sheet with extremely high brightness, excellent opacity and high bulk—and absolutely no tree fiber.
