How sustainable is the German paper industry?

With a return rate of 75 %, paper ranks first in raw material recycling in Germany. The German paper industry is therefore one of the movers and shakers of a modern circular economy. Yet the production and use of paper is also viewed critically, especially in relation to the logging required to supply fresh fibres. In addition, the production of paper is energy intensive.

Against this background, working on behalf of the Research and Engineering Advisory Board of the Pulp and Paper Industry in the VDP e. V. (German Pulp and Paper Association), bifa Umweltinstitut is carrying out a study on the state of facts with regard to the sustainability of paper. The objective is to create a scientific basis for all aspects of the origin of raw materials, environmental effects and recyclability of paper. As an independent, neutral institution, bifa Umweltinstitut is undertaking the search for the necessary up-to-date information. The work on the project is being carried out in cooperation with the Paper Foundation (“Papiertechnischen Stiftung”). The project started in December 2019, the study is expected to be completed in the autumn of 2020.

You want more information?
You are welcome to contact me:
Dr. Wolfram Dietz
wdietz@bifa.de