According to estimates calculated at the University of Maine, it is possible for a single tree to produce 8,333 sheets of paper, amounting to 16.67 reams. This calculation assumes a tree that is 40 feet (12.2 m) tall and 6-8 inches (about 15-20 cm) in diameter. The calculation does not take into account the thickness and type of paper produced or the fact that other materials such as sawdust also can be used in the paper formula.
More facts about paper:
- Paper's origin can be traced to ancient Egypt. As early as 3000 B.C., strips from the stem of the Cyperous papyrus plant were softened in the waters of the Nile River, then layered at right angles. The papyrus was dried in direct sunlight, then pounded to produce a piece of paper that was suitable for writing.
- Paper recycling reached a record high in the United States in 2009. During that year, 63.4 percent of the paper used in the nation was recovered for recycling purposes.
- As of 2012, almost 40 percent of the fiber used in the production of new paper products in the U.S. was derived from recycled materials.
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By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.