Our forests not only preserve biodiversity, but are also important allies in the fight against climate change thanks to their CO2 storage capacity. However, the situation of the world's forests is precarious: forest fires and climate-related pest infestations are taking their toll. If we want to achieve the 1.5-degree target set out in the Paris Agreement, we need to focus on sustainable alternatives.

By Alexander Schwab

There are already initiatives against deforestation in many parts of the world. In Europe, for example, the forest area has been reforested by 0.2 % – 1,500 soccer fields – per year over the last ten years. In addition to replanting, however, there is another measure that protects forests from excessive encroachment: recycling waste paper and cartonboard. The reasons for this approach are manifold:
1. Reduced raw material consumption: The production of 1 kg of recycled paper requires only 1.2 kg of waste paper – compared to 2.2 kg of wood for new cartonboard.
2. Efficient use of resources: Waste paper can be (re)used up to 25 times.
3. Environmental friendliness: Locally collected waste paper minimizes transport routes, thus reducing emissions and the impact on nature.
4. Less waste: By recycling waste paper and using it for recycled cartonboard, the amount of waste can be reduced.
5. Positive publicity: If a company uses recycled cartonboard, it demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection and can thus build up a positive image.
6. Promotion of the circular economy: The use of recycled cartonboard supports the idea of the circular economy, which favours the reuse of resources rather than throw-away products.
7. Future orientation: With increasing environmental awareness in society, the use of recycled cartonboard is a must.
8. Compliance with regulatory requirements: The use of recycled cartonboard helps companies to comply with regulations. For example the EU's Waste Framework Directive , which requires the efficient recycling of waste.

But despite all the advantages, one thing cannot be denied: Recovered paper is also initially based on virgin fibers. Even within the recycling cycle, new fibers are needed. In order to remain sustainable, it is therefore important to use wood from FSC- or PEFC-certified forests.

Recycled cartonboard minimises the need for virgin fibres and thus actively contributes to protecting our environment. What is more, packaging made from recovered paper not only meets the requirements of the circular economy, but also responds to consumers’ desire for greater sustainability. If a company uses recycled cartonboard, it scores points with its customers and shows that it is taking responsibility for the environment. Only if we see recovered paper not as waste, but as an important raw material in terms of the sustainable use of resources, will we succeed in creating a more environmentally friendly future for generations to come.

Curious? More information can be found in the white paper "Counteracting deforestation – what can recycled cartonboard contribute?"