Event organizers are encouraging people to request paper with at least 30 percent recycled content, meaning 30 percent of the paper is made from reused fibers from a previous paper product.

The Bay Area Recycling Outreach Coalition, which is organizing the drive, also wants people to buy recycled paper.

The coalition is comprised of representatives from Alameda, Santa Clara, San Francisco and San Mateo cities and counties.

Tracie Bills, BayROC campaign coordinator, also wants people to buy recycled paper towels, boxes and other materials. Many people don't know that almost everything could be made out of recycled products, she says.

"Having people become more aware of what they purchase is being environmentally conscious," said Bills, who encourages people to ask for recycled products. "Residents and businesses need to be conscious when they go to office supply stores or printing firms."

Recycled paper products help the environment in four ways, she said. They save energy, water and trees and reduce toxins released into the environment.

One ton of 100 percent recycled paper saves 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water and 4,100 kilowatt-hours of energy (enough to power the average home for six months), according to the California Department of Conservation. It also saves 60 pounds of air pollution and 8 cubic feet of landfill space.

For more information about the campaign go to bayarearecycling.org or call the BayROC toll-free hot line at (877) STOPWASTE.

The Oakland Tribune: Cityside
Leanne McLaughlin, Managing Editor
(510) 208-6447
(510) 208-6477 Fax
lmclaughlin@angnewspapers.com Email

Oakland Tribune: General Contact Information
401 13th Street
Oakland, California 94612
(510) 208-6330 Switchboard
(510) 293-2709 Online Content
www.oaklandtribune.com