European Paper Alliance: Paper-based packaging can replace 25% of petroleum-based plastic packaging by 2025
On September 20, the European Union of Paper Industries (CEPI) issued an opinion on the amendment to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD) and expects that paper-based packaging can replace at least 25% of petroleum-based plastic packaging by 2025.
In Europe, paper packaging has the highest recycling rate, at 82% in 2019. In specific product applications, paper fibers in packaging were used an average of 5.5 times in 2019, while the fibers themselves were allowed to be recycled more than 25 times.
CEPI recommends that, in principle, all paper packaging is recyclable unless there are technical barriers. Packaging design cannot be recycled. The main function of packaging is to protect food throughout the logistics chain, which cannot be deviated from.
CEPI said the PPWD amendment has the potential to contribute to the EU's 2050 carbon neutrality target. To achieve this, fossil resources will need to remain in the ground, and carbon emissions from the sourcing and manufacturing of all products must be reduced.
