Myth: “Paper Is Bad For The Environment”

Paper is based on wood, a natural and renewable material. Paper is one of the most recycled products in the world and epitomises the
circular economy model of make, use, recycle and reuse.

The paper industry uses respected forestry and chain of custody certification schemes to ensure that virgin fibre originates from sustainable sources. The two most recognised certification schemes are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Paper is highly recycled and, in Europe, paper fibres were re-used an average of 4 times in 2025.¹ 59% of the fibrous raw material used in Europe’s paper industry comes from paper for recycling.²

In 2025 a total of 54 million tonnes of paper was collected and recycled in Europe, equating to a recycling rate of 76%.¹ In 2021, the signatories of the European Declaration on Paper Recycling declared their commitment to reach a 76% paper recycling rate by 2030.¹

For paper packaging, the recycling rate is even higher, with 85% of paper and cardboard packaging being recycled in Europe. Paper is the most recycled packaging material, followed by metallic (79%), glass (75%), and plastic (42%).³

Just 25% of European consumers understand that paper and paper-based packaging has a high recycling rate.

Two Sides Trend Tracker 2025

Paper cannot be recycled indefinitely due to natural losses through the recycling process. Furthermore, production cannot be based on 100% recycled fibre as 100% of consumption cannot be collected. The cycle must therefore
be constantly refilled with new strong virgin fibres from sustainably managed forests.

Two Sides encourages responsible paper consumption. Double-sided printing in the office and separate collection schemes will reduce costs and improve sustainability. Once a paper product’s purpose is complete, it can be placed in the recycling bin and collected alongside other used paper products from businesses and households.

The European paper industry is a leading recycler and, with local collecting systems improving, will increase it’s recycling rates even further.

Sustainability Facts

Paper is made from wood, a natural renewable and sustainable resource.
Paper ensures healthy growing forests, with an indispensable role in climate and biodiversity protection.
Between 2015 and 2025, European forests grew by an area the size of Belgium.⁴
59% of fibre comes from paper for recycling.²
Of the total collection in Europe, 76% of paper¹ and 85% of cardboard packaging³ is recycled.
A number of certification schemes exist to ensure forests are sustainably managed.
Most terrestrial biodiversity is found in the world’s forests.