Session 1. TAPPI Environmental Communications (Panel Discussion), 1995 Engineering Conference Proceedings

C. T. Bohanan

TAPPI

The industry has spoken and TAPPI has listened. In response to the outcry from industry members, TAPPI has made the environment and the industry image its business. In keeping with TAPPI’s mission as a technical association, it is now part of our vision to provide the public with sound scientific information on industry-related issues. And TAPPI’s Strategic Plan has identified as one of its outcomes: "TAPPI will have recognition and respect as a primary source of sound scientific information for the public on major technical issues affecting the industry." At this session, TAPPI volunteers and staff unveil the Association’s newest program to address the public perception of industry’s role in the environment. Since the Environmental Division has played a large part in helping to develop proactive environmental materials, it is fitting that members attending this conference be the first to see and hear of TAPPI’s new services, activities and future plans in this area. This session gives members the tools they need to respond to public criticism and distorted truths about the industry to frequently asked questions from the public, such as, "Is using paper killing trees?" by translating highly technical information into reader-friendly material. Other materials from AF&PA give information on recycling, forests, paper vs. plastic and other topics. Plus, the new materials developed for the Paper Express program relay positive messages about the industry to those who count most - a generation of children and young adults who need to grow up knowing the true "green" facts and understanding the environmental big picture.