Introduction

The paper and paperboard industry is one of the oldest and most significant industries globally. It is a sector that produces a wide range of products, including packaging materials, printing and writing papers, and tissue products. However, the industry is also known for its significant contribution to carbon emissions, making it a major contributor to climate change. Decarbonisation in the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard is, therefore, critical to reducing the carbon footprint of this sector. This article will explore what decarbonisation is in the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard, its importance, the main sources of carbon emissions, how to reduce carbon emissions, the challenges facing decarbonisation, and the implications of decarbonisation for this sector.

What is Decarbonisation in the Manufacture of Articles of Paper and Paperboard Sector?

Decarbonisation refers to the process of reducing or eliminating carbon emissions from various sectors, including the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard. It involves the use of cleaner energy sources, such as renewable energy, and the adoption of more sustainable practices to reduce the carbon footprint of the industry. Decarbonisation is critical to achieving the goal of limiting global warming to below 2°C, as set out in the Paris Agreement.

Why is Decarbonisation Important in the Manufacture of Articles of Paper and Paperboard Sector?

The manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard is a significant contributor to carbon emissions globally. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the industry accounted for 1.1% of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions in 2019. The industry's contribution to carbon emissions is mainly due to the use of fossil fuels in the production process, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Decarbonisation is, therefore, critical to reducing the carbon footprint of this sector and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Main Sources of Carbon Emissions in the Manufacture of Articles of Paper and Paperboard Sector

The main sources of carbon emissions in the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard sector include:

1. Energy consumption: The industry is energy-intensive, and the production process requires a significant amount of energy. The use of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, for energy generation, contributes to carbon emissions.
2. Transportation: The transportation of raw materials, such as wood pulp and chemicals, and finished products, such as paper and paperboard, also contributes to carbon emissions.
3. Chemicals: The use of chemicals in the production process, such as bleaching agents, contributes to carbon emissions.
4. Waste management: The disposal of waste, such as paper and chemical waste, also contributes to carbon emissions.

How to Reduce Carbon Emissions in the Manufacture of Articles of Paper and Paperboard Sector

There are several ways to reduce carbon emissions in the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard sector, including:

1. Use of renewable energy: The industry can reduce its carbon footprint by using renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, for energy generation.
2. Energy efficiency: The industry can improve energy efficiency by adopting more efficient production processes, such as using more efficient machinery and equipment.
3. Sustainable sourcing: The industry can reduce its carbon footprint by sourcing raw materials, such as wood pulp, from sustainable sources.
4. Recycling: The industry can reduce its carbon footprint by recycling waste paper and paperboard, reducing the need for virgin materials.
5. Chemical management: The industry can reduce its carbon footprint by using more sustainable chemicals in the production process.

Challenges Facing Decarbonisation in the Manufacture of Articles of Paper and Paperboard Sector

There are several challenges facing decarbonisation in the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard sector, including:

1. Cost: The adoption of cleaner energy sources and sustainable practices can be costly, making it challenging for some companies to implement.
2. Infrastructure: The lack of infrastructure, such as renewable energy infrastructure, in some regions can hinder the adoption of cleaner energy sources.
3. Regulations: Regulations and policies can either facilitate or hinder decarbonisation efforts in the industry.
4. Consumer demand: The demand for paper and paperboard products is still high, making it challenging for companies to reduce their carbon footprint while meeting consumer demand.

Implications of Decarbonisation for the Manufacture of Articles of Paper and Paperboard Sector

Decarbonisation has several implications for the manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard sector, including:

1. Competitive advantage: Companies that adopt sustainable practices and cleaner energy sources can gain a competitive advantage in the industry.
2. Reduced costs: The adoption of sustainable practices and cleaner energy sources can lead to reduced costs in the long term.
3. Environmental benefits: Decarbonisation can lead to significant environmental benefits, such as reduced carbon emissions and improved air and water quality.
4. Regulatory compliance: Companies that fail to adopt sustainable practices and cleaner energy sources may face regulatory compliance issues.

Conclusion

The manufacture of articles of paper and paperboard sector is a significant contributor to carbon emissions globally. Decarbonisation is critical to reducing the carbon footprint of this sector and mitigating the effects of climate change. The main sources of carbon emissions in the industry include energy consumption, transportation, chemicals, and waste management. To reduce carbon emissions, the industry can adopt sustainable practices, use renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency, and recycle waste paper and paperboard. However, several challenges, such as cost, infrastructure, regulations, and consumer demand, hinder decarbonisation efforts in the industry. Decarbonisation has several implications for the industry, including a competitive advantage, reduced costs, environmental benefits, and regulatory compliance.