Provided is method of producing graphene directly from a pulp, paper, or paper product, the method comprising a procedure of subjecting the pulp, paper, or paper product (preferably containing post-consumer, reclaimed, or recycled product) to a graphitization treatment at a graphitization temperature in the range of 1,500° C. to 3,400° C. (preferably >2,500° C.) in a substantially non-oxidizing environment for a length of time sufficient for converting the product to a graphene material product. Preferably and typically, the method does not involve the use of an externally added undesirable chemical (other than those paper chemicals already present in the paper product) or catalyst. The method is environmentally benign, ecologically friendly, and highly scalable.