Recycled Paper

In 2012 the University of Freiburg and the University of Konstanz were awarded by the Initiative Pro Recycled Paper (IPR). The University uses at least 87 per cent recycled paper with the Blue Angel and exemplarily takes ecological responsibility for the conservation of natural ressources.

On the initiative of the committee for environmental protection and supported by an intern of Prof. Oesten, the University of Freiburg has introduced recycled paper in all departmentsover a period of some years. The paper chosen is a 90 gram white paper whose manufacture is more ecologically advantageous than paper made from fresh fibers. This paper has been awarded the Blue Angel, meaning that it meets all ecological and technical specifications for use in printers and copiers. The paper is suitable for archiving. Extensive tests have also shown that the paper is the first recycled paper suited for use in the University Reproduction Center and for the usual printers at work places. The paper is also economical: Because it`s cheaper than paper from fresh fibers.

The aim of the project is to implement the principle of sustainability referred to in the strategic paper of the university. As a sustainable university, we should use as much recycled paper as we submit for the manufacture of recycled paper. The use of recycled paper is now a university-wide requirement.

The efficiency of the tests and consultation before the introduction of recycled paper was tellingly confirmed by the experience of 2006: the amount of recycled paper to the overall paper consumptioon could be increased from 6.15% (March 2006) to 57.1% for 2006. Up to the end of 2009, the paper utilisation rate of recycled paper could be increased to 86% of the overall paper consumption.

The development of paper consumption at the University of Freiburg can be seen in the following graphs:

The successful introduction of recycled paper was only possibly owing to the cooperation of all members of the University.
The Sustainable University Work Group thanks all members of the University!
Please continue in this way so that we can further expan our achievements!
For example also use recycled paper for coloured paper.

Click here to view the official university circular “Choice of Paper at the Albert-Ludwig University of Freiburg”.

For a technical data sheet on recycled paper, click here.

For general information about the order of office equipment by agreement partners, click here

For the online shop of our agreement partner,click here

An order form for paper (PDF) may be found here.