Over the past few months, extremely high temperatures have been causing or contributing to deaths and natural disasters across the world. In this context, and as it becomes clear that temperatures will only continue to rise, putting our best efforts into mitigating climate change is more important than ever.
Though not a solution in themselves, recycled paper products can certainly contribute to lowering temperatures. For starters, their production is energy efficient, and it can help reducing the overall carbon footprint and deforestation rates.
Reduced Deforestation: Unlike with traditional paper products, producing recycled paper products doesn’t involve cutting down trees. To make a product from recycled paper you collect already used paper, break it down into fibers and then use those fibers to create a new paper product. By using recycled paper, the demand for virgin wood pulp decreases, which in turn reduces the pressure on forests and helps maintain their role as carbon sinks.
Energy and Water Savings: Recycled paper production consumes 31 percent less energy than virgin paper production, and considerable less water. Lower energy consumption means fewer greenhouse gas emissions from power generation, helping to curb climate change. Using less water reduces the strain on water resources, which is important in areas facing water scarcity due to changing climate patterns.
Reduced Emissions: Recycled paper also helps reduce emissions by avoiding used paper ending up in landfills, where it decomposes and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Furthermore, using recycled paper products supports the circular economy, which also results in lower emissions and none of the environmental impact associated with extracting and processing raw resources.
How recycled paper is transforming packaging
Packaging is one of the main sectors in which there is excessive use of plastic and great potential for the use of paper – or, better yet, recycled paper. Companies like Molpack use recycled paper pulp to create packaging solutions for everything from fresh produce and wine bottles to the food service industry. By using the best clean technology available, Molpack develops biodegradable, recyclable & sturdy packaging options that are also good for the planet.
Another sector where recycled paper packaging is becoming the go to option is e-commerce and retail, where recycled paper mailers are being used to meet the needs of conscious consumers. The same trend is evident in the beauty and wellness industry; P&G, for example, have already launched all paper packaging for some of their brands, many of which contain 90 percent post-consumer recycled content.
Recycled paper fibers can be reused 5 to 7 times to make new paper and cardboard products, which makes these products a key part of the circular economy that the world is striving towards for a more sustainable future. Addressing climate change, of course, requires a holistic approach that includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency and protecting ecosystems.