When selling the number one recycled product on its shelf, a Flamborough Centre printing company wants customers to think of number two. That’s right, Global Printing is the user and distributor of Poo Poo Paper, an entirely recycled, odourless paper product made of elephant poop.

Manufactured in Asia, Poo Poo Paper is one of the most eco-friendly paper products on the market, explained Global Printing owner Dan Smelt, who is hopeful the product will appeal to many businesses eager to promote their company or items on this unique paper product.

“If you are one of those clients that want to do something that is totally unique and recycled to the max, this is it,” said Smelt, who first connected with the owner of Poo Poo Paper less than a year ago.

“I suggested to him that we work together to try and come up with some way of sending bulk paper here so that printers can utilize the paper and print different products,” said the local business owner and Waterdown resident.

Already, Poo Poo Paper has been used to print promotional materials as well as sample business cards for a Toronto menagerie. But Smelt believes this product can be used in a variety of ways, including educational pieces.

Roughly 25 large sheets of Poo Poo Paper can be manufactured from one piece of elephant turd, which is dried, collected and thoroughly rinsed and boiled before it is mixed with natural fibers from fruits, such as pineapples, and banana trees. Adding natural fibers strengthens the product, which is solid and fibrous.

“It makes good paper,” said Smelt, who has previous experience as a press operator and has worked in different departments for an international printing company. “It just sends an environmental message.”

Reinvestment

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Poo Poo Paper also supports a good cause. According to Smelt, funds are reinvested to care for the elephants, which live in conservation parks overseas.

“It’s a win, win, win all around,” he said.

But Poo Poo Paper doesn’t rely solely on elephants to create its products. It also looks to other herbivores, such as cows, pandas and horses, for their frequent deposits.

Currently, Smelt is focused on reducing the cost of the paper’s production to make it more affordable – and appealing – to clients. His Global Printing business is also looking forward to working with businesses to design a unique marketing plan using the poop-based product.

Smelt purchased Global Printing nearly four years ago, and also offers web and graphic design services. He prides himself on maximizing his customers’ marketing and communication strategies by thinking up creative ways to showcase their businesses and products.  

“Collectively, this is where we are sound,” he said.

For more information on Poo Poo Paper or Global Printing, visit www.globalprint.ca or call 905-689-3355.