Pulpwood is young trees grown for paper production, furniture, clothing, and cosmetics. It can be harvested from natural disasters or mixed logging operations. Recycled wood can also be used. The industry helps offset new tree harvesting and reduces environmental impact.
Pulpwood is a term used to refer to trees that are grown with the intention of harvesting lumber for use in the production of paper products. Different types of trees can be used in the creation of this type of wood product and are usually harvested when still relatively young. Along with its use in the production of paper products, wood pulp is used in the creation of various types of wood products used in the production of inexpensive furniture, as well as in clothing and cosmetics.
While some manufacturers intentionally plant areas of trees to be used in wood pulp, other situations can also lead to the harvesting of trees for the creation of this wood product. For example, trees recovered after a natural disaster may be used for this purpose. In what is known as a mixed logging operation, trees that are ideal for creating lumber are cut first, leaving inferior trees to be harvested for use in pulp production. Dead trees and sizable branches cut from various types of trees can also be used in making pulpwood for various purposes.
The pulp industry can even use some existing wood products to create new pulp. One example is the use of wood harvested from building demolition sites. Old pallets and floors collected from manufacturing facilities can also be recycled into new pulp for use in various products.
The single most common purpose behind pulp harvesting is the production of paper products. Writing paper, computer paper, and photocopies are made from wood pulp. Household products such as paper towels, napkins, disposable plates, and toilet paper are also made with wood pulp. The glossy paper used in magazine production also uses wood pulp.
However, other products can also be created using the material that emerges from paper mills. Processed wood fibers can be used to create rayon and acetate material for use in creating clothing, camping tents, and other fabric items. The extracted pine oils can be used to produce cleaning products, while the residue and oil are used in the production of cosmetics and different types of perfumes and colognes.
As the pulp industry makes use of trees that are not suitable for lumber production, as well as using recyclable sections of wood, the industry can easily continue to operate as new sections of wooded area are repopulated with trees grown specifically for the use in the creation of wood pulp. By reusing old wood products to create raw materials for use in new goods, the industry also helps offset the constant harvesting of new trees to keep up with demand. This allows the trees to grow to maturity before being harvested and thus reduces the impact of the industry on the environment.
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