Papers & Boards — Ethical & Environmental (AQA GCSE Design & Technology): Revision Note

The environmental factors of papers and boards refer to how they impact the environment, including:

• Whether they can be recycled or reused

• How sustainably they are produced

Many papers and boards, e.g. corrugated card, are recyclable

• This reduces waste and the need for new raw materials sourced from trees

Papers and boards can be made from recycled fibres or reused

• For example, boxes being used multiple times help to reduce the environmental impact

The social factors of papers and boards refer to how their production and use affect people and society

Manufacturers are expected to act responsibly when producing paper and board products. This includes:

• Reducing waste

• Ensuring safe working conditions

• Minimising environmental harm

Factors that designers and manufacturers should consider include:

• Where papers and boards are sourced from

• The chemicals used in the process of producing them

• The working conditions of employees

The cultural factors of papers and boards include how designs, colours and uses are influenced by different cultures and traditions

Designers must be aware that colours, symbols and images used on paper and board products may have different meanings in different cultures

• This can result in one brand having different names in different regions, e.g. Walkers Crisps in the UK and Lays Crisps in Spain

Packaging and printed designs are often adapted to suit cultural preferences, traditions and target markets

The ethical factors of papers and boards are how responsibly the materials are sourced and produced

Papers and boards should be sourced from certified suppliers, e.g. FSC, ensuring that the wood pulp comes from sustainably managed forests and ethical supply chains