Cornell University Press and
Environmentally Responsible Publishing

Cornell University Press, along with a growing number of other publishers, believes that it can do much to encourage and effect environmentally responsible practices within our industry. Production and design staff have an especially important role in this process: by performing a life-cycle analysis of the products we depend on, such as paper and ink, we begin to understand the dramatic impact our choices have, not only on the environment but also on how our suppliers strive to meet our needs.

As publishers we need to turn our attention to the paper industry, which is currently about the eighth largest industry and the third largest polluter in the United States. This industry is grappling with, and frequently fighting, legislation designed to curb its pollution. Clearly legislation alone is not the answer. Market or consumer demand, however, can help move our suppliers in the right direction. For example, by creating demand for totally chlorine-free paper, a product manufactured with technology designed to prevent pollution instead of simply limiting it, publishers encourage paper mills to make the transition to technology that is better for the environment.

Similarly, fostering a market for recycled paper can reduce pressure on forests and create other environmental savings. In 2002, U.S. book sales neared $27 billion, according to the American Association of Publishers, 2003. This required nearly one million tons of paper and the consumption of approximately 20 million trees (calculation provided by Conservatree). In an effort to reduce their ecological footprint, nearly 130 North American publishing leaders and innovators, including Cornell Press, have agreed to phase out using papers that may contain Endangered Forest fiber. These publishing leaders are also committing to maximize their use of recycled paper in an effort to conserve energy, water, and greenhouse gases.

Cornell Press made a formal commitment in 2001 to reduce its ecological footprint and to encourage other publishers to follow suit. As of the fall of 2004, 85% of Cornell Press titles are published on recycled paper that contains a minimum of 30% post consumer waste (in actuality, the vast majority of Press titles contain 60% to 100% pcw) and is free of endangered forest fiber. This paper is also processed chlorine free.

Cornell Press continually strives to be an environmentally responsible publisher. In late 2004, production manager Deborah Bruner founded the AAUP Eco Task Force, whose objectives include educating publishers about eco-friendly opportunities, coordinating the eco-friendly efforts of American and Canadian university presses, exploring the use of alternative (tree-free) fibers, and more.