Pictures! Yes, I thought to post this picture after discussing clear-cutting, the tactless logging technique used by some paper manufacturers, with a colleague (at this point, most colleagues in the print world are probably saying, "What the heck is he doing pointing this out!").There are some benefits to properly managed and planned clear-cutting (for vegetation patches that require heavy sunlight). But here's what you should know about improper clear-cutting:
1. It's the most efficient way to produce paper, making paper prices lower.
2. It often detroys much wildlife in the process.
3. It makes the land (and mainly the soil) un-usable for a long time, because it removes the necessary decomposition cycle to grow vegetation.
4. Clear-cutting can cause intense erosion, which causes severe mudslides.
5. It's aesthetically unpleasing (but you can see that in the picture!).
HOWEVER, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) insures that logging is done selectively, so that our forests are maintained. There are many paper manufacturers that produce brands only with FSC certification, so that you can still receive the same competitive pricing as previously. As an FSC certified printer, I also recommend heavy recycled content paper.
