Two Sides releases updated Myths and Facts booklet

Paper pressure group Two Sides has released the ninth version of its Myths and Facts booklet, highlighting the many myths propagated in the paper and print industries.

The 24pp A5 booklet has a redesigned front cover, drawn by illustrator Holly Sims. It contains a complete revision of many of the original facts and figures, slimmed down so none are printed twice.

Two Sides campaign manager Greg Selfe said: "The booklet is one of our key resources. We are thrilled to have just published version nine after several months of research and development. All of the content has been updated, referencing the most up-to-date reports and studies."

Myths debunked in the book include “European forests are shrinking”, “Paper is bad for the environment” and “Electronic communication is more environmentally friendly than paper-based communication”.

Key facts highlighted include “Between 2005 and 2015, European forests grew by the size of Switzerland” and “84% of the industry’s raw materials come from Europe".

Subscribers can download the booklet from Two Sides' website and use a tool to place their logo on the front cover. They can also request a copy in the post. The booklet is printed by Buckingham-based printer BCQ Group, with paper supplied by Antalis.

One of Two Sides' current campaigns involves informing the public about the "paperless myths" being supplied by broadband providers and banks, which these companies claim is better for the environment. 

Selfe said: "One of our big campaigns is to try and rebut these claims. We investigate and contact these companies. These claims are unsubstantiated. We are often encouraged by broadbanders to move to e-billing but these providers should be giving us balanced information."

Formed in 2008 alongside members of the Graphic Communications Supply Chain, Two Sides uses a variety of means to inform the wider public about the print and paper industry. 

Its annual Power of Print seminar will be held in November.

Last year, it commissioned global research company Toluna to carry out research into the public’s reading habits and found 84% of people responded better to information when reading it in print, as supposed to digitally.