Introducing the brand-new Graphic Industry Guide – Printing Paper!

Standards, certifications, accreditations, and more!

Paper remains at the core of printed communications, but its sourcing has never been more complex. Increasing environmental requirements, ever more precise technical criteria, and a wide range of recognition frameworks mean that choosing paper is no longer simply a matter of cost or performance. Purchasing decisions now rely on a nuanced understanding of multiple parameters, which can sometimes be difficult to interpret. It is in this context that the Alliance québécoise des imprimeurs et fabricants d’emballage (AQIFE) and GrafiCompétences sought to equip the industry by promoting a better understanding of the mechanisms governing the supply of printing paper, particularly in a high-volume purchasing environment.

The two organizations entrusted the Institut des communications graphiques et de l’imprimabilité (ICI) with the mandate to analyze the main standards, certifications, and accreditations required of paper manufacturers in Quebec, whether environmental, technical, quality-related, or linked to product origin. This rigorous approach provides a structured perspective on a field that is often perceived as complex and sometimes difficult to interpret.

This publication was developed with the goal of providing clarity. It is not intended to be an exhaustive inventory or a promotional tool, but rather a guide to understanding. By outlining the foundations, actual criteria, scope, and limitations of the various forms of recognition, it aims to give readers the tools needed to properly interpret requirements, distinguish recognized regulatory frameworks from private initiatives, and ultimately make informed decisions.

ICI is proud to have contributed to the development of this guide by leveraging its technical expertise, hands-on experience, and in-depth knowledge of issues related to printable materials. This work also benefited from the contributions of external collaborators, whose input helped enrich the analysis and ensure the accuracy of the information presented. Rooted in the realities of the industry and designed to be accessible, this guide is intended for specification writers, purchasers, and all stakeholders required to navigate this complex ecosystem. More than a reference tool, it is meant to support informed decision-making when selecting printing paper.

The guide is organized alphabetically across five sectors: raw materials, manufacturing, finished products, technical performance, and organizations. Each entry includes a definition, its visual identity, and key information to support understanding, such as the nature of the term, societal considerations, geographic scope, audit processes, and associated specifications. A table of standards commonly used in the printing paper industry, along with a glossary of frequently used terms, completes the guide, followed by an index to facilitate quick and targeted searches for specific terms.

Happy reading!
For any questions or additional information, please contact us at: information@i-ci.ca