Our papers are not made from cut trees

On the occasion of the International Day of Forests, it’s time to dispel some persistent myths about the paper industry and its impact on our precious forests. Far from the destructive image often conveyed, the paper industry actually plays a key role in the sustainable management of forest resources.

Contrary to popular belief, paper production is not the main cause of deforestation. In fact, deforestation is mainly due to the conversion of forest land into agricultural land, especially for livestock and soy cultivation. The forests of North America, where a large part of the paper is produced, are even seeing their area increase thanks to sustainable management practices.

At Solisco, we are aware of the importance of preserving natural resources and minimizing our environmental impact. That’s why it’s important to shed light on the sustainable and responsible practices that are common in the production of our papers.

Responsible raw materials

The paper industry sources responsibly, using recycled materials and wood scraps from other industrial processes. Moreover, trees specially grown for paper production come from sustainably managed forests, where each cut tree is replaced by a newly planted tree.

Trees are not the main source of fibers for paper production. In reality, the following sources are preferred:

·      Recycled fibers: Recycled paper now represents more than 50% of the fibers used in paper production in North America.

·      Wood residues: Chips, sawdust, and other waste from sawmills and logging operations are used to make paper.

·      Sustainably managed forests: When virgin wood is used, it comes from Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) or Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification™ (PEFC) certified forests, which ensure sustainable management of forest resources.

The paper manufacturing process begins with the collection of recycled fibers, which are then mixed with water in a large container to create a fiber suspension. Impurities are removed, and the solution is diluted to allow the creation of fine and uniform paper. After several stages of water removal and drying, the paper is finally rolled up and ready for printing.

Comparatively, wooden floors can have a more significant impact on forests. Although wood is a renewable resource, the production of flooring often requires mature tree species that take decades to regrow. This can lead to increased pressure on forests if they are not managed sustainably.

Towards a Circular Paper Economy

The paper industry is an example of the circular economy in action. With a high recycling rate, used paper is transformed into new products, thus reducing the demand for virgin fibers and minimizing environmental impact.

It is essential to recognize the role of the paper industry in promoting sustainable forest management and the circular economy. As a responsible company, Solisco is aware of its role in forest protection. We are convinced that the paper industry can play a positive role in the sustainable management of forest resources.

On this International Day of Forests, we invite businesses and consumers to learn more about our sustainable practices and how to make responsible choices. Together, we can contribute to the preservation of forests for future generations.