Study "Sustainable paper cycle": Basis for responsible and sustainable action
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The paper industry has a good basis for responsible and sustainable action. With a consistent fibre cycle and the duality of fresh and recycled fibres, the paper industry implements sustainable action at all stages.
A study by the bifa Environmental Institute, which was funded by the Board of Trustees for Research and Technology of the Pulp and Paper Industry as a joint research project, has now compiled reliable facts on the sustainability of paper production and paper use. On 57 pages, the study provides a comprehensive database, especially on the topics of life cycle assessment, energy consumption, wood origin and recycling.
The study, which was prepared with the expert involvement of the German Federal Environment Agency and the paper industry, states that the paper industry uses wood, a renewable raw material that does not cause any greenhouse gas emissions in the balance sheet and does not impair the forest ecosystem when used sustainably. An analysis of the origin of wood shows that the clearing or conversion of primary and semi-natural forest predominantly serves purposes other than paper production. By certifying forest areas and purchasing FSC- or PEFC-certified wood, pulp or paper, many companies support sustainable forest management. With sustainable wood use and high recycling rates, the paper industry has a good starting point to act responsibly and sustainably. However, infinite recycling is not possible. Losses of secondary fibres in the process must always be replaced by primary fibres.
The study also looks at the issue of energy. The German paper industry is one of the most energy-intensive sectors. However, the final energy consumption per tonne of paper could be reduced over the years, by 43 % since 1980. A major hurdle for a significant further reduction is the process step of paper drying. The amount of paper used - the study also takes up this point - is high in an international comparison. In terms of gross domestic product, however, Germany is in the middle of the pack. Here, the close relationship to economic performance becomes clear. Paper, cardboard and paperboard play an important role in the logistics of Germany as an export nation.
