Responsible paper companies play a crucial role in promoting sustainable forestry by adopting practices that prioritize environmental friendliness. By using recycled fibers or responsibly sourced virgin fibers, these companies empower consumers to make eco-conscious choices. The adoption of the EU Ecolabel is a significant step in this direction.
The focus on paper production as a driver of deforestation and forest degradation has raised concerns about its impact on climate change and biodiversity loss. However, some paper companies are leading the way in advocating for sustainable forestry practices, especially with the enforcement of the EU Regulation on deforestation-free products from December 2024. This regulation mandates that all forest-related products entering the EU market must not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation globally.
One such industry leader is the Mondi Group, a global packaging and paper producer, which has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable forest management practices. Their sustainability report for 2022 highlights their efforts to source wood fibers from certified sustainable forests or through recycling, showcasing the viability of high-quality and sustainable recycled paper products.
In alignment with circular economy principles, Mondi has set ambitious targets, with 82% of their packaging and paper products already being reusable, recyclable, or compostable in 2022. Their goal is to achieve 100% compliance with these criteria by 2025, thereby reducing waste and the demand for raw materials.
Recognizing the growing consumer demand for sustainable paper products, Mondi has pursued the EU Ecolabel certification to validate the environmental credentials of its uncoated paper. The EU Ecolabel, which was first awarded to a Mondi product in Austria in 2012, sets stringent sustainability criteria tailored to specific product groups, including paper.
For graphic paper products, Mondi adheres to the EU Ecolabel criteria, ensuring that fibers are not sourced from GMO species, are covered by valid chain of custody certificates, and originate from sustainably managed forests or recycled materials. The criteria also emphasize the reduction of CO2 and pollutant emissions, restriction on hazardous chemicals, energy-efficient manufacturing processes, waste reduction, and promotion of circular economy practices.
By leveraging the credibility of the EU Ecolabel, businesses like Mondi can showcase their commitment to sustainable paper manufacturing practices. As of September 2023, the EU Ecolabel had been awarded to over 20,000 paper products, including various graphic paper products from Mondi under different brand names like PERGRAPHICA® design paper, all listed on the EU Ecolabel Product Catalogue for transparency and consumer awareness.
Ultimately, the adoption of sustainable practices in the paper industry not only benefits the environment but also responds to consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. Companies like Mondi are setting a positive example for the industry, demonstrating that sustainability and quality can go hand in hand in the production of paper products.
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