Sustainability and Circularity

The European paper industry is building on decades of work done to make its industrial model sustainable and circular, making it one of the most sustainable industries in Europe. It relies on raw materials, pulp derived from processing wood, which is intrinsically sustainable as it comes from sustainably managed forests; it has achieved a 31% decarbonisation from 2005 to date and it has become and anchor industry for industrial symbiosis, sharing materials, energy heat and water. One of our initiatives under sustainability is 4evergreen, the alliance to boost the contribution of fibre-based packaging in a circular and sustainable economy that minimises climate and environmental impact.

Paper is recycled at a rate of 71.4% (2021 data) in Europe, which is the highest recycling rate for paper in the world. Paper based packaging is even recycled at 82%. More paper based packaging is recycled than all other packaging materials combined. The paper industry thrives to further increase recycling and material use of recycling residues through the sharing of best practises and the development of cross-sectorial alliances.

For information on paper recycling, visit www.paperforrecycling.eu.

Activities

Press Release: 4evergreen welcomes new chair to drive the alliance towards the completion of fibre-based packaging guidelines

Press Release: 4evergreen welcomes new chair to drive the alliance towards the completion of fibre-based packaging guidelines

Key messages on the Targeted Stakeholder Survey (TSS) on the E-PRTR Regulation revision

Key messages on the Targeted Stakeholder Survey (TSS) on the E-PRTR Regulation revision

Press release: International Council of Forest and Paper Associations releases global sustainability progress report

Press release: International Council of Forest and Paper Associations releases global sustainability progress report

Joint industry statement on the decarbonisation policy options suggested in the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED)

Joint industry statement on the decarbonisation policy options suggested in the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED)

Press release: European paper recycling demonstrates high level of resilience in the light of severe global disruptions

Press release: European paper recycling demonstrates high level of resilience in the light of severe global disruptions

Press release: Revamped EU Forest Strategy will recognize the importance of forest-based industries and the bioeconomy

Press release: Revamped EU Forest Strategy will recognize the importance of forest-based industries and the bioeconomy