Promoting the benefits of paper
FEPE is active in building awareness of the sustainability of paper products, including envelopes and other paper-based light packaging.
Paper is a sustainable, versatile and efficient material.
And it can greatly help us to reduce the use of plastics.
All of the paper used in envelopes is 100% recyclable.
And so is the transparent window film!
European Paper Recycling Council Cooperation
FEPE is an active member of the European Paper Recycling Council (EPRC), contributing to an industry-led framework that monitors recycling performance, removes barriers to recycling, and supports the long-term resilience of the European paper recycling value chain under the European Declaration on Paper Recycling 2021–2030.
Learn more about FEPE’s cooperation with the European Paper Recycling Council
CO₂ Footprint Calculator for Envelope Production
FEPE has developed a dedicated CO₂ footprint calculation tool for envelope production, specifically for members. The tool enables envelope manufacturers to calculate the carbon footprint of their production in a structured and harmonised way, based on recognised methodologies.
Developed in cooperation with La Poste and IT partner DK, the tool supports members in responding to increasing demands for environmental transparency, customer information, and sustainability reporting, using accurate and sector-specific data.
Facts versus myths
FEPE supports evidence-based communication on paper sustainability, including recycling performance, responsible forest management, and the environmental profile of paper-based products.
Get the facts
No, forests are not shrinking
The pulp and paper industry depends on, and promotes, sustainable forest management to provide a reliable supply of wood fibre, the key raw material for its products.
European mills source over 90% of their wood fibre from forests in Europe, which grew by 58,390 km2 between 2005 and 2020. Nearly twice the size of Belgium, equivalent to 1,500 football pitches every day!
Over 60% of this area is certified to FSC® or PEFC™ standards, supported by the print and paper industry. Well-managed forests bring multiple benefits for society, such as livelihoods, ecosystem services and biodiversity.
No, paper is not a wasteful product
Paper-based packaging protects goods, reduces waste and is recyclable. Paper is one of the most recycled materials. In Europe, 72% of paper was recycled in 2019, which is near the practical maximum of 78%.
The paper industry is a leading user of renewable energy: 60% of the energy used to make paper and paper products comes from renewable sources.
The paper industry is consistently reducing its total primary energy consumption, through investment in technologies such as highly efficient Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems and renewable bioenergy.
No, paper is not bad for the environment
Paper is based on wood, a natural and renewable material. Paper is one of the few truly sustainable products. The recycling rate for paper and cardboard packaging in the EU is 85% (58% globally). Even if a paper bag is irresponsibly discarded, it will have a relatively minimal impact due to its natural compostable characteristics.