The use of recycled paper-rolled tubes as potential impact energy absorbing elements has been experimentally explored. Single and bundled (cellular) tubes have been subjected to quasi-static axial and lateral crushing loads. Effect ofL/D,D/tratios and loading rate on the energy absorbing performance of such tubes have been considered. The load-deflection curves of the axially and laterally crushed paper tubes exhibit some of the favourable characteristics of energy absorbing elements which includes low load uniformity ratio, long stroke and reasonable specific energy. The paper-rolled tubes, in single or cellular form, are light, economical, made of recyclable and pollution-free material and above all have a reasonable specific absorption energy which makes them a favourable candidate for energy absorption.