The paper revolution
The paper recycling rate in Europe was 70.5% in 2022, keeping fibres in the loop longer and extending the benefits of their renewable origin. This is approaching the practical maximum recycling rate of 78%.
In some regions, recycling rates can reach up to 80%, which is probably the maximum rate from a practical perspective. This is because some paper products cannot be recovered for recycling because they are kept for long periods of time (books) or archived (records); others are destroyed or contaminated when used (e.g. tissue and hygiene paper).
Paper is recycled on average 3.5 times a year in Europe. Paper cannot be recycled indefinitely as fibres get too short and worn out and therefore can no longer be used in creating new paper. Hence, virgin fibres from trees are needed to continue the cycle. These new fibres come from renewable, sustainably-managed forests and continue the loop.
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