Scholastic Sets New Goals for Recycled and FSC-Certified Paper Use

“Scholastic’s environmental purchasing policy will set the bar for publishers, and its goal of ensuring that 30 percent of its paper supply is FSC-certified by 2012 will help create more demand for paper from responsibly managed forests,” said Tensie Whelan, executive director, Rainforest Alliance (www.rainforest-alliance.org). “Sustainability is an ongoing process, and commitments like this protect forests, conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods.”

“Scholastic’s green publishing policy is truly industry-leading and will do much to continue advancing positive transformations in the book sector,” said Tyson Miller, Director, Green Press Initiative (www.greenpressinitiative.org).

In FY07, Scholastic purchased 95,000 tons of paper for use in books, magazines, school book club flyers and other product, of which 4 percent was FSC-certified paper and 11 percent contained pcw fiber. Over the last 20 years, the company’s criteria for selecting suppliers has included evaluating their sustainable forestry practices, clean manufacturing practices, credible reporting and verification, and economic viability.

New Act Green Website for Kids

Along with the new policy announcement, Scholastic today launched its new, interactive “green” Web site for kids called Scholastic ACT GREEN! at www.scholastic.com/actgreen. Designed to educate kids about climate change and sustainability and involve them in efforts to preserve the planet, the site includes the “Scholastic Greenerator,” where kids can create customized “green” plans and earn “green” points, a message board, e-cards and green-themed videos from Live Earth. There are also tips and resources for parents and teachers, including “100 Ways to Act Green.”

About Scholastic

Scholastic Corporation (NASDAQ: SCHL) is the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books and a leader in educational technology. Scholastic creates quality educational and entertaining materials and products for use in school and at home, including children’s books, magazines, technology-based products, teacher materials, television programming, film, videos and toys. The company distributes its products and services through a variety of channels, including proprietary school-based book clubs, school-based book fairs, and school-based and direct-to-home continuity programs; retail stores, schools, libraries and television networks; and the company’s Internet site, www.scholastic.com.