Reinventing the Role of Paper in the Digital World

EarthChoice as a principle, not just a product line
Nov 2, 2011 11:30 AM ET

Reinventing the Role of Paper in the Digital World

By Gaia Dempsey, Founder & Managing Partner at Demeter Interactive

Though many of us have a fondness bordering on addiction for our smartphones, tablets, and the constant stream of digital information they provide, there’s something about the tactile solidity of paper that still feels irreplaceable. As a writer, I know that when I put pen to paper something unique happens – the smoothness and thickness of the page, the color of the lines running across it, even the pen I’m writing with, all have a palpable effect on what I create.   Paper provides a tangible and emotional connection that simply can’t be transmitted via data on a screen, whether it’s a physical space for creativity, a meaningful expression of thanks in a handwritten note, or the concreteness of seeing your financials in black and white.   But what about paper’s environmental footprint?   Last week I spoke with Lewis Fix of pulp & paper company Domtar about sustainability and how a paper giant is evolving to meet the needs of the market today. We talked about what motivates him to continue to lead sustainability initiatives in the paper industry. Lewis says, “I gotta make it really visible, and really simple. I know it can be complex. If you’re making it a little better every time, that’s what matters. We have the opportunity to attract young, engaged people who can make a difference.”   Domtar is Opportunity Green’s official paper partner, and has an exciting announcement that will be made at the conference on November 10-11. Lewis Fix is the Vice-President of Sustainable Business & Brand Management at Domtar. In this role, he directs the environmental business strategy for Domtar’s pulp and paper segment as a member of the company’s Sustainability Committee.   What follows are the highlights of my conversation with Lewis: 

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