Abstract: A variety of uses and compositions composed of a recycled paper by-product material formed during the processing of recycled paper and/or its ash residue are disclosed. The by-product, ash residue and/or compositions include them can be used as an absorbent, a fire retarder, a loss circulation additive, a proppant, a fire fighting agent, a temporary landfill agent, a filler for composites, a drilling fluid additive, a concrete moisture retention agent, a soil conditioner, a soil additive, a slow release plant food, or the like and to method for using the compositions.