Can Recycled Paper Really Help the Planet? (Spoiler: Yes)

As conversations about climate change and waste reduction heat up, recycled paper is back in the spotlight. In 2024 alone, US mills consumed 32.7 million tons of recycled paper, which is 1.29 million tons more than the year before and shows a clear rise in demand. But just how much impact can recycling paper really make, and why should brands switch to recyclable paperboard today?

For Every 1 Ton of Paper Recycled, We Save:

Up to 26,000 liters of water, a vital resource in paper production.
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 1 metric ton of CO₂ equivalent.
Free up valuable landfill space, lowering the burden on waste management systems.

That means every small choice, like using recycled paper, creates a ripple effect for the planet. Saving water, energy, and emissions, according to data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Using Paper Instead of Plastic Helps By:

1. Faster Decomposition

Paper breaks down much quicker than plastic, reducing long-term waste.

2. Widely Recyclable

Paperboard is easier to recycle through existing waste systems compared to multi-layer plastics.

3. Safer for Marine Life

If paper escapes into the environment, it is far less harmful to oceans and wildlife than plastic.

4. Designed for Circularity

Paper packaging supports a circular system, unlike many plastics that often end up in landfills or oceans.

Less Pollution, Less Waste

Choosing paperboard instead of plastic makes a big difference for the environment. Paperboard breaks down in just a few weeks, while plastic bottles and bags can stay around for hundreds of years and turn into harmful microplastics.

Paperboard is also recycled much more often than plastic. About 60% of paper and paperboard is recycled worldwide, compared to less than 10% of plastics. This means paperboard packaging is more likely to be used again instead of ending up in landfills or oceans.

It’s Your Move, Switch to Foopak Recyclable Paperboard Today

Every change toward better packaging makes a difference. By choosing Foopak, your business can reduce plastic use, cut waste, and show customers you care about the environment.

Foopak’s recyclable paperboard is designed to perform just as well as plastic while helping you meet both consumer expectations and new regulations. We are ready to work with brands of all sizes to create tailored packaging solutions that are functional, sustainable, and aligned with your goals. Now is the time to take the step toward packaging that is good for your brand and better for the planet.