twosides

Two Sides is a global nonprofit information campaign established to communicate facts about the environmental footprint of print and paper and to counter misinformation about the sustainability of paper, printing, and digital media. It characterizes itself as providing balanced, evidence-based materials on forests, recycling, and responsible production to help consumers, businesses, and educators make informed choices.

The campaign was launched by industry groups in the late 2000s and has since expanded to multiple regions, including North America and Europe. It operates through a coalition of paper manufacturers, printers, and trade associations that contribute resources and sponsorship. The organization publishes educational materials and maintains a website with fact sheets and references.

Two Sides produces infographics, case studies, and reports on topics such as paper recycling rates, lifecycle assessments, energy use in papermaking, and sustainable forestry. It offers materials for journalists, teachers, and businesses and engages in public outreach, media activity, and collaborations with industry partners to promote responsible use of paper.

Reception of the campaign is mixed. Proponents argue that Two Sides helps illuminate industry-relevant data and counters misinformation about paper and deforestation. Critics contend that the campaign is industry-funded and may emphasize favorable framings of paper sustainability, potentially downplaying uncertainties or trade-offs in lifecycle analyses.

Two Sides remains active, updating materials as sustainability discussions evolve and as industry and environmental research develops.