Paper recycling: Italy crosses the milestone 15 years ahead of schedule
Paper recycling is pretty much a discussed issue, essential for correct waste management and the protection of our planet.
Precisely for this reason, in 2018, the European Union set new goals to improve the recycling rate of paper and cardboard packaging.
Italy’s commitment has been commendable: Italy has in fact exceeded the target set by the EU 15 years in advance, demonstrating sensitivity and commitment to this issue.
Paper recycling: ethically fair and affordable
According to Unirima, Italy has exceeded the 85% recycling rate target set by the EU for 2035, even reaching a remarkable 87.3%.
A result, the one obtained, not only ethically correct but also particularly convenient.
Paper recycling does not only respond to the obligations we have towards our planet but also to a considerable economic gain.
In fact, paper production uses more than 10% of the energy used by the entire industrial sector.
Recycling it therefore means saving over 60% of the energy needed to produce brand new paper, significantly reducing environmental pollution.
Specifically – according to EPA – paper recycling reduces water pollution by 35% and air pollution by 74%, thus saving electricity and water.
Italy is an example for the whole world
The attention of the Belpaese (literally, “the beautiful Country”, a historical nickname for Italy) towards circular economy should not be underestimated.
Our wonderful land is home to 600 treatment plants, capable of producing over 6 million tons of waste paper (namely the recovered fibers obtained from paper and cardboard).
The goals achieved (and those planned) are supported by the approval of the End Of Waste decree, which establishes the criteria for the termination of the waste qualification for paper and cardboard.
Waste paper is therefore officially considered a raw material, to be reinserted within the production cycle.
That of circular economy is an objective that we must continue to pursue: enhancing the potential of waste contributes to the development of the economy and to the protection of our precious planet.