The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) applauded U.S. Representatives Michael Michaud (ME-02) and Reid Ribble (WI-08) for creating the new Congressional Paper Caucus.  Federal policies play an important role in the future of the paper industry in the United States.  The bipartisan caucus will bring attention to the important role the paper industry plays in the economy and will consider ways to promote and sustain the paper manufacturing sector through policy solutions. 

U.S. paper mills produce a wide range of essential items that Americans rely on every day, such as tissue paper and newspaper, food packaging, corrugated boxes, copier and writing paper. 

"The forest products industry accounts for approximately 4.5 percent of the total U.S. manufacturing Gross Domestic Product (GDP); manufactures nearly $200 billion of product a year; and employs nearly 900,000 people," said AF&PA President and CEO Donna Harman.  "The industry pays approximately $50 billion in compensation annually.  Many of the jobs in our industry are in rural communities whose economies depend on the success of the local mills."

U.S. paper mills are innovating and advancing to remain competitive in the global marketplace.  Between 2006 and 2011, the industry has invested $52 billion in new equipment and production capability.  The industry has also invested heavily to ensure that nearly three times more paper is recycled than is sent to landfills, with an industry goals to exceed 70 percent recovery by 2020.

For more information about AF&PA and its policy initiatives, visit www.afandpa.org.