The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Paper recycling is a waste management process that involves reprocessing waste paper into new paper products. It is a crucial practice for conserving natural resources, reducing solid waste, and minimizing the environmental footprint of paper production.
- Statement 1 is Correct: Paper fibers shorten and weaken each time they are processed. Generally, paper can be recycled approximately 5 to 7 times before the fibers become too short to bind together effectively to form new paper.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Saving paper has a direct and significant impact on reducing deforestation. It is estimated that recycling one ton of paper saves approximately 17 full-grown trees. Therefore, reducing paper consumption and recycling directly lowers the demand for wood pulp, thereby saving trees.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The production of virgin paper from wood pulp involves intensive chemical processes, often using harsh bleaching agents like chlorine. Recycling paper requires significantly fewer harmful chemicals and consumes less energy and water compared to manufacturing paper from raw materials.
Key Takeaway: Recycling paper conserves trees, energy, and water while reducing chemical pollution, although paper fibers have a finite recycling lifespan of about 5 to 7 cycles.