The debate over the environmental impact of paper books versus e-readers is not as straightforward as it might seem. Both have their pros and cons, and the choice between the two can significantly affect our carbon footprint.
Traditional print publishing has a high carbon footprint. According to 2023 data, print book publishing is the world’s third-largest industrial greenhouse gas emitter, and 32 million trees are felled each year in the United States to make paper for books. The energy-intensive processes of pulping, printing, and shipping, along with the destruction of unsold books, contribute to this footprint.
Many publishers are now focusing on improving the sustainability of paperback and hardcover books. They are donating unsold copies, switching to on-demand printing, reducing initial print runs, and using more sustainable paper.
On the other hand, digital reading is on the rise. E-books and audiobooks now capture about 15% of the total US book market. However, digital devices also come with a substantial carbon footprint, predominantly at the manufacturing stage.
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