Paper Is Highly Recycled And Naturally Sustainable

Paper is based on wood, a natural and renewable material. Paper is one of the most recycled products in the world and epitomises the circular economy model of make, use, recycle and reuse.

The paper industry uses respected forestry certification schemes to ensure that virgin fibre originates from sustainable sources. The two most recognised certification schemes are Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification™ (PEFC™).

Paper is highly recycled and, in Europe, re-used an average 3.8 times. 56% of the fibrous raw material used in Europe’s paper industry comes from paper for recycling.[1, 2]

In 2020, a total of 56 million tonnes of paper was collected and recycled in Europe – a recycling rate of 74%. This is approaching the estimated practical maximum of 78%.[1]

For paper packaging, the recycling rate is even higher, with 83% of paper and cardboard packaging being recycled in Europe. Paper is the most recycled packaging material, followed by metal (80%), glass (75%) and plastic (42%).[3]

Only 16% of European consumers understand that paper and paper-based packaging has a high recycling rate.
Two Sides & Toluna research, 2021

Paper cannot be recycled indefinitely as the fibres get too short and worn out to be useful in creating a new sheet of paper. Furthermore, production cannot be based on 100% recycled fibre as 100% of consumption cannot be collected. The cycle must therefore be constantly refilled with new strong virgin fibres from sustainably managed forests.

Two Sides encourages responsible paper consumption. Double-sided printing in the office and separate collection schemes will reduce costs and improve sustainability. Once a paper product’s purpose is complete, it can be placed in the recycling bin and collected alongside other used paper products from businesses and households.

The European paper industry is a leading recycler and, with local collecting systems improving, will increase its recycling rates even further.

Sustainability Facts

• Paper is made from wood, a natural renewable and sustainable resource.
• Paper ensures healthy growing forests, with an indispensable role in climate and biodiversity protection.
• Between 2005 and 2020, European forests grew by an area the size of Switzerland.[4]
• 56% of fibre comes from paper for recycling.[2]
• In Europe, 74% of paper and 83% of cardboard packaging is recycled.[1]
• A number of certification schemes exist to ensure forests are sustainably managed.
• Most terrestrial biodiversity is found in the world’s forests.

Sources

1. European Paper Recycling Council, Monitoring Report, 2020
2. Cepi, Key Statistics, 2020
3. Eurostat, 2019
4. FAO data, 2005-2020