Complete Story
05/12/2026
Why Consumers Continue to Choose Paper and Cardboard
Source: TwoSides North America, 2025
As sustainability conversations continue to shape purchasing decisions and brand perception, paper and cardboard packaging remain strong favorites among consumers looking for environmentally responsible solutions.
According to the latest Trend Tracker Survey from Two Sides North America, consumers continue to recognize paper-based products and packaging as practical, recyclable, and sustainable materials that align with their environmental expectations. Key attributes consistently associated with paper and cardboard include recyclability, biodegradability, and ease of reuse within existing recycling systems.
For the printing, packaging, and graphic communications industry, these perceptions represent both an opportunity and an important reminder about the value of communicating accurate environmental facts. While misinformation surrounding paper and print still exists in the marketplace, studies continue to demonstrate strong consumer confidence in paper-based packaging and communication materials when sustainability is clearly explained.
The findings also reinforce the importance of ongoing education surrounding responsible forestry, recycling infrastructure, renewable materials, and the circular nature of paper products. As brands continue evaluating packaging strategies and consumer engagement methods, paper remains a highly trusted and preferred option across many demographics.
Graphic Media Alliance is also excited to welcome Jules Van Sant of Two Sides North America as a featured speaker at the Michigan Leadership Summit taking place May 21 in Romulus, Michigan. Jules will share valuable insight into sustainability messaging, consumer perception trends, and how organizations can better communicate the environmental strengths of print, paper, and packaging products in today’s marketplace.
The Future of Leadership Starts May 21
The challenges facing our industry are growing more complex by the day, but so are the opportunities for leaders willing to think differently, adapt faster, and invest in their people. Join Graphic Media Alliance on May 21 in Romulus, Michigan, for an energizing day of leadership, strategy, workforce development, sustainability, and operational insight designed specifically for printing and graphic communications professionals. This new promotional video offers a preview of the powerful conversations, expert speakers, and real-world takeaways attendees will experience at the Michigan Leadership Summit. If you are serious about strengthening your organization, developing future leaders, and staying ahead of industry change, this is a program you do not want to miss. Registration is now open and attendance is limited.
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The Emerging Leaders Academy was designed to be more than another leadership seminar. This year-long experience is focused on developing practical, confident leaders equipped to navigate the real-world challenges facing today’s printing and graphic communications industry. As part of the program, participants will receive the new Executive Field Guide, a structured leadership resource built to support learning long after each session concludes. Developed specifically around the Academy curriculum, the guide combines leadership frameworks, reflection exercises, actionable tools, and practical operational insight into a hands-on resource leaders can return to throughout their careers. From communication and accountability to workforce development and strategic leadership, the Emerging Leaders Academy is helping build the next generation of industry leaders with tools they can actually use. Enrollment is now open, and the first session begins May 21.
Read MoreWhy Consumers Continue to Choose Paper and Cardboard
Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious about sustainability, recyclability, and environmental impact — and paper-based packaging continues to stand out as a preferred choice. According to the latest findings from Two Sides North America’s Trend Tracker Survey, paper and cardboard consistently check the boxes consumers care about most, including recyclability, biodegradability, and environmental responsibility. Attendees of the Michigan Leadership Summit on May 21 will also have the opportunity to hear directly from Jules Van Sant of Two Sides North America as a featured speaker during this year’s event.
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