[GreenYes] Recycled paper longevity

AF&PA has done some paper composting studies, although they are fairly old. In general, they found that paper degrades at a rate that is consistent with the rest of the material and that it is not harmful in the composting mix.

The bottom line is that paper is compostable, although this may not be the highest use for papers that can be recycled into new paper products. Paper degrades at various rates depending on whether the paper has been shredded before entering the composting system, the type of composting system, they type of paper/packaging (does it have a laminate coating?), etc.

Wil Cote may have some information on degradation rates for paper NOT in a composting system, if I remember correctly. Also, I don't think there is any difference between recycled fibers and virgin. The length of the fiber and any coatings on the paper are likely to have more influence on the rate of degradation.