Submitted by: The Two Sides Team October 29, 2020

In Europe, 72% of paper consumption was recycled in 2019, making it one of the most recycled of all materials. The European paper value chain is committed to maximising paper recycling rates, and reducing barriers that hamper the ability to recycle paper. Recycling paper is the mst eco-efficient waste management option, and the use of recycled fibres complements the need for virgin wood fibre to meet societal demand for paper and board products.

In 2019, a total of 57.5 million tonnes of paper was collected and recycled, resulting in a recycling rate of 72%. Europe is the paper recycling champion, having the highest rate globally. They are followed by North America (68%) and Asia (54%). Within Europe, 15 countries exceed the 70% recycling rate.

Download the Paper Recovery and Recycling fact sheet to find out more.

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