Paper industry is a partner on the way to a climate-neutral society

Association President Winfried Schaur praised the German government's value-based policy in the current crisis in front of 150 guests. He pointed out that paper companies were very willing to transform. In international competition, however, the exploding energy prices in Germany could mean the end for many energy-intensive companies without corresponding relief. In this regard, he said, it is above all up to the federal government to swiftly implement the recommendations of the Gas Commission and to eliminate existing contradictions with EU state aid law.

Schaur also called for a reset in energy policy in order to avoid a supply gap that would last for years. Before existing energy sources are switched off, it must be ensured that a reliable switch to renewable energies and corresponding storage options can be made. The industry is already experiencing a decline in production due to high energy prices that cannot be passed on to customers. There must be faster approval procedures for renewable energies themselves, he said. "The entire industry needs reliability, predictability and, above all, a realistic perspective in energy policy," said Schaur.

As an opening statement to the "Paper Summit", former Bundestag President Prof. Dr. Norbert Lammert had critically examined the term "turning point" and the role of the industry: "The paper industry is an encouraging example that "turning points" are also associated not only with challenges, but also with opportunities.