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September 1997

Taking note of the paper industry

Cynthia Engel

Consumer participation in recycling, improvements in technology, increased consumption of paper products, and liberalization of international trade together have had an enormous influence on employment in paper-related industries. Employment in paper manufacturing has fluctuated less in recent years than its usual historical volitility would have predicted, although 16,000 jobs have been lost on net since 1990. Employment in recycling collection and paper distribution reflects a steady and increasing rate of growth that has far outweighed employment declines in paper manufacturing though. This article examines the changing market for paper, including the demand for recycled products and exports, and its effect on employment trends.

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