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TRENDS: PAPER CONSUMPTION RISES WORLDWIDE

WASHINGTON, DC — Paper use worldwide continues to grow, even as Internet-based E-mail and E-commerce becomes more popular, said a study by PaperCom Alliance International, a non-profit group that looks at the future of paper products. “Electronic communication is actually helping to increase paper’s use in virtually all market sectors,” the group noted. In homes and offices, desktop printing of Web-based information and E-mails is expanding. But the biggest boost in paper consumption is a result of dot-coms that use direct mail, catalogues and print advertising to build brand awareness and increase sales. The study, which measured paper consumption in 93 countries, found the following results in 1999: communication papers rose 5.3%; newsprint 3.4%; promotional print 6%. Asia recorded the highest growth at 10%, followed by Australasia (Australia, New Zealand and Fiji) at 7.4%.