Sanderson Academy students learn about paper packaging, importance of trees

ASHFIELD — The Mary Lyon Foundation, in partnership with the nonprofit Paperboard Packaging Council, held a lecture on paper products and the environment at Sanderson Academy last week.

Ben Markens, president of the Paperboard Packaging Council, and other members took turns talking with students about the paper packaging industry and how trees play an important role in the environment. Speakers briefly touched on how trees harvest the energy of the sun through photosynthesis to produce wood, and how trees provide homes for wildlife, oxygen and fiber to make — among other things — paper.

In regards to paper production, speakers explained how trees are harvested and ground up at pulp mills, then combined with water and pressed to make paper products. They showed the students several examples of paperboard packaging products.

By giving the students a sapling in a paper carton and instructing the children to bring them home and plant them in the cartons — which will biodegrade and feed the tree while funneling water to the roots and offering protection — speakers demonstrated several concepts such as renewable resources, biodegradable elements and sustainability.

Reach Paul Franz at 413-772-0261, ext. 266 or pfranz@recorder.com.