Paper consumption and information media

Global paper consumption and the influence of electronic information media are discussed from the view of information science and the paper industry. Some major market segments for printing and writing papers are analysed in order to obtain a better view of the impact of information technology (rr). The divided world for paper consumption and IT is discussed. Printing on p aper seems to survive and coexist with the new media. An important consider ation for the paper industry is whether the developing countries will leapf rog the paper phase and adapt to full-scale use of TT. The cost issue will also have a greater influence on people's information choices than their ac tual habits. The view in information science is that paper never has been t he best medium for many kinds of data and information and that we welcome t he multiplicity of means of communication and the strengths and weaknesses of each.