In 2021, 41.1% of the paper collected for recycling in the United States was used to produce containerboard (i.e. corrugated boxes), 12.1% to produce boxboard (folding boxes like cereal or medicine boxes, and gypsum wallboard, i.e. drywall/ facings.), 7.1% for tissue and 5.9% for newsprint. Exports accounted for 33.7%, up from 32.2% in 2020.[1]
54% to 56% of U.S. consumers surveyed believe only recycled paper should be used to make new paper products.[4] However, this is not possible because fresh wood fiber from sustainably managed forests is essential to sustain a viable paper industry. Recycled fiber would not exist without harvesting fresh fiber.[5]