Paperboard Packaging Council members facilitated TICCIT (short for Trees Into Cartons, Cartons Into Trees) programs to students in their local communities throughout the United States this spring, inspiring students to create a more sustainable future. (Pusterla US)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass.—The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC), is proud to announce the success of its TICCIT (Trees Into Cartons, Cartons Into Trees) program, thanks to the dedication and commitment of its member companies across the country. The TICCIT program, which educates schoolchildren about the environmental benefits of recycling and trees, has reached new heights this year with unprecedented participation and impact.

Created in 2010 by PPC, the TICCIT program is held at schools nationwide around Earth Day. After classroom learning sessions, students pot tree saplings into paperboard cartons filled with soil to take home and plant with their families. Once planted, the paper cartons will naturally biodegrade, completing the “trees into cartons, cartons into trees” lifecycle. Over the last 14 years, the program has planted over 120,000 saplings.

TICCIT continues to thrive with the support of PPC members nationwide, who engage with schools and local communities to plant trees and spread awareness about recycling. This year’s program has seen a record number of trees planted, and countless students have gained valuable insights into the lifecycle of trees and the sustainability of paperboard packaging.

Eleven companies from across the United States participated in the program with Accord Carton, American Carton Company, Baumer hhs, Diamond Packaging, Graphic Packaging International, Malnove, Manchester Industries, Matik,Inc, Metsä Board, Pusterla US, Sappi, and WestRock. These companies collectively planted nearly 8,000 saplings. Over 7,000 students were involved in planting trees, showcasing the extensive reach and impact of the program.

"The success of the TICCIT program is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our members," said Emily Leonczyk, Executive Director and Vice President of the Paperboard Packaging Council. "Their support and active involvement have enabled us to educate thousands of young minds about the importance of sustainability and the critical role that paperboard packaging plays in protecting our environment. The collective impact of their work underscores the power of community and collaboration in driving positive environmental change."

Teachers and administrators can gather all the resources needed for their school or youth organization at https://ticcit.info to participate in the program. By partnering with a sponsor, compiling supplies, and presenting TICCIT to students, TICCIT supporters promote the power of paperboard renewability and recyclability.