Which of these magazines does NOT use recycled paper?

National Geographic does not use recycled paper...While highly respected and perhaps the inspiration for many in the conservation movement, the National Geographic Society (NGS) chooses to not use recycled paper in the pages of National Geographic Magazine. Furthermore, they source their virgin paper from one of the most polluting paper mills in the United States.

A decade of delay...Over ten years ago, Green America approached National Geographic to encourage them to be an environmental leader in the magazine industry and fulfill their mission of protecting the planet.

Breakthrough...After years of stalled negotiations, we are optimistic about the current dialogue with National Geographic. We have embarked on a research project with NGS about the environmental benefits of recycled paper. Although the questions that NGS wants to answer through this research have been answered long ago, we agreed to work with them as long as the process is science-based, results are made public, and NGS maintains their commitment to act upon the results. These current negotiations with NGS are a direct result of Green America’s persistence. We have been urging them to implement a paper use policy that outlines their efforts and includes:

1. Using at least 30% post-consumer recycled paper
2. Encouraging all their paper suppliers to reduce their pollution
3. Eliminating any fiber from illegal and controversial sources such as fiber from Indonesia and ensure that all virgin fiber comes from credibly certified, well-managed forests (currently the Forest Stewardship Council is the best certification system).

The sustainable choice...Using recycled paper in magazines is a great way to protect forests, climate, and communities. Read the articles and papers below to understand the environmental benefits of switching to recycled paper:

Mirror Mirror on the Wall by Jeff Mendohlson from New Leaf Paper

Spitballs and Recycled Paper by Frank Locantore from Green America’s Better Paper Project

2011 State of the Paper Industry Report by the Environmental Paper Network

The Paper Task Force Report by Duke University, Environmental Defense Fund, Johnson & Johnson, McDonald’s, The Prudential Insurance Company of America and Time Inc.

Other recycled paper resources