Sustainability

Papyrus & the Planet

We’re on a journey to becoming a more sustainable brand by finding ways to reduce our impact on the planet. From our products to our packaging and everything in between, we’re reimagining how we lead the Celebrations industry in planet-first practices. Here are some ways we’re becoming more environmentally conscious:

Transitioning to 100% Recycled Plastic Content

Papyrus uses plastic overwrap bags (also known as polybags) to protect the beautiful handmade elements on our cards during shipping and handling. These bags prevent the product from being damaged, helping to minimize waste. As part of an effort to reduce single-use plastics, our new packaging is made from 100% pre-consumer recycled content and can be recycled again after use.

How to Recycle the New Overwrap Bags

Our new plastic overwrap bags can be recycled at designated locations where plastic film and grocery bags are accepted – like your local Target store! Participating retailers have in-store drop-off recycling bins located at the entrance that are labeled for plastic bags, films or wraps. Bring your plastic overwrap bags back to a store near you and place them in the correct bin. These bags are not yet accepted in curbside recycling programs in the United States. (Canada: Check locally.)

Responsibly Sourcing Our Paper

Paper is at the heart of what we do. That’s why Papyrus is proud to use sustainably sourced paper. Almost all of our products are printed on paper certified by The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), the leading international authority on the responsible management of the world’s forests. As a brand, Papyrus became FSC-certified in 2020 and continues to source FSC-certified paper stocks whenever possible.

Reimagining Our Wow Factor

Without sacrificing the beauty or quality of our brand, Papyrus made the decision to stop using glitter on new product designs. Why the change? Because glitter is a microplastic that pollutes our waterways, rivers, and oceans, making it harmful to marine life.

The change has been exciting and allows us to discover new modern and trend-forward finishings like extra shimmery reflective foil. Our sweet letterpress designs and uniquely

engineered paper details are just a few additional ways we continue to raise the bar while lowering our impact on the planet.

Rethinking Our Packaging

In addition to replacing the protective plastic on our cards, we’ve been transitioning our packaging to more environmentally responsible solutions.

Holiday Boxed Cards

95% of the paper packaging is curbside recyclable

Gift Bags

Reusable for future gifting and displayed with paper hooks and bands

Candles

Now in paper packaging, phasing out plastic elements

Moving toward Sustainable Celebrations

Making the shift to more Earth-conscious options also includes our entertaining products. In December of 2023, Papyrus stopped using palm oil in the production of our Eco Candles. Now made from 100% beeswax, our Eco Candles are still available in the same vibrant colors and fun designs. The candles also feature a cotton, lead-free wick and the paper packaging is made from 70% recycled content paper and can be recycled curbside.

Partnering with Purpose

As we continue to expand our assortment of products, we aim to partner with brands and companies that also use environmentally responsible materials.

Learn more about our Sustainability Initiatives on a corporate scale

Click here to read about how our parent company, American Greetings, is moving toward a more sustainable future. Our Connections for Good report outlines the Actively Green program, which is designed to advance sustainability efforts corporate wide.

FAQs

Why did Papyrus change the protective plastic packaging for its greeting cards?

It’s part of our effort to become a more sustainable brand and reduce single-use plastics. Our new packaging is made from 100% pre-consumer recycled content and can be recycled again after use.

How do I recycle the plastic packaging the card comes in?

These plastic overwrap bags can be recycled at designated locations where plastic film and grocery bags are accepted – like your local Target and grocery stores. Look for the in-store

drop-off recycling bins located near the entrance. These bins will be labeled for plastic bags, films or wraps.

Why doesn’t Papyrus use glitter on its cards anymore?

Glitter is a microplastic that pollutes our waterways, rivers, and oceans, making it harmful to marine life. We continue to explore new modern and trend-forward finishings to give our cards a unique eye-catching element.

Can I recycle Papyrus greeting cards?

Our cards are designed to be displayed in your home or office. Consider framing your favorites for personalized décor. If you’d like to recycle a Papyrus greeting card, ones that have only a foil treatment are able to be recycled in your curbside recycling. Otherwise, keep the front and recycle the back panel of the card. Click here to see more ways you can repurpose your Papyrus greeting cards.

Why do your Box Card Sets no longer have a plastic top for the decorative box?

In an effort to minimize our plastic usage, we’ve been transitioning our packaging to more environmentally responsible solutions, such as paper that is curbside recyclable.