Toimistopaperi

Toimistopaperi (Finnish for “office paper”) refers to the range of paper products used for everyday administrative and clerical tasks in workplaces, schools and public institutions. The most common type is standard printing or copy paper, which is typically white, lightweight (70–80 g/m²), and designed for compatibility with laser, ink‑jet and multifunction printers. Other varieties include coloured or shaded paper for filing, carbon‑less copy paper for multipart forms, and heavier cardstock for presentations or business cards.

In Finland, office paper conforms to European standards such as EN 71‑3 for colour fastness and EN ISO 216 for the A‑series sizing system (A4 being the most prevalent). The paper is usually supplied in ream packages of 500 sheets, though bulk sales in larger cartons are common for large organisations.

The production of toimistopaperi has shifted increasingly toward sustainability. A growing share of the market consists of paper made from recycled fibres, certified by schemes such as FSC or the Nordic Ecolabel, and many manufacturers report reduced chlorine bleaching and lower carbon footprints. Finnish paper mills, historically a significant sector of the national economy, have adapted by integrating closed‑loop water systems and increasing the proportion of renewable energy in their processes.

Typical applications encompass printing of documents, copying, note‑taking, internal memoranda, and filing. The paper’s smooth surface and uniform weight ensure reliable feeding in high‑speed machines, while its opacity prevents show‑through, which is important for double‑sided printing. Although digital alternatives have reduced overall consumption, toimistopaperi remains essential for legal documentation, archival records and situations where a physical record is required.