While some books are ending up in dumpsters before they’re even sold, the same can’t be said for most high-quality heirloom photography books. And while some publishers are likely looking for ways to cut corners in a sliding economy, South Carolina-based Arcadia Publishing is looking for ways to invest in both the future of the company and the future of the world’s forests.

Arcadia, the largest publisher of local history books in the U.S. is now the country’s first major book publisher to use 100 percent Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper across its entire line. Beginning with its current reprint runs and all 700 new releases in 2010, Arcadia will feature the FSC-certified paper and will carry the accredited FSC label.

Products using the FSC label are independently certified to assure consumers the paper comes from forests that are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations.

Richard Joseph, CEO of Mount Pleasant-based Arcadia Publishing said he considers the unprecedented initiative as a natural next step for the company. “Consistent with our commitment to help communities preserve history through local and regional history books, we have extended our efforts to improve the impact we have on our environment,” Joseph said.

All books are manufactured in South Carolina on American-made paper. “We are proud our books are made right here in the USA,” said Joseph.

“Our books feature local history, are manufactured locally, and are written by local authors-our focus is truly all about being local.”

Reprinted with permission from Earth & Industry