findings & key actions

Thanks to the ACV that we applied on our thin paper, we were able to make several observations. This in turn made it possible to implement certain coherent procedures in accordance with our sustainable development policy.

The following observations and procedures are the most noteworthy:

The use of lightweight paper represents an environmental benefit in terms of almost all our indicators (around 10% for paper from 40 to 45 g/m2).

  • Procedure: To encourage our clients to consume light weight paper thanks to our low impact Programme and to pursue the eco-design of light weight paper while respecting the specific demands of our clients.

The phase of production and transportation of paper pulp takes precedence over almost every indicator (54% of energy consumption, 94% of water consumption, 77% of emissions contributing to eutrophication, 97% of AOX emissions…) and directly impacts the emission of greenhouse gases in the life cycle.

  • Procedure: To evaluate each raw material and paper pulp supplier and to select the most virtuous among them.

The introduction of recycled paper reduces the impact on the environment (up to 72% according to the indicators).

  • Procedure: To develop “green” lightweight paper made of recycled fibres (Primagreen, Primacoat Green, Primafree).

The use of titanium dioxide (TIO2) reduces the impact on the general environment for thin paper (<36 g/m2).

  • Procedure: To continue our investment in order to lessen the environmental impact of our process, to continue to use our waste and to invest in renewable energy (building biomass boilers on both of our production sites).

The phase of production and the life of the paper have a non-negligible impact (from 2 to 42% depending on the indicator).

  • Procedure: To continue our investment in order to lessen the environmental impact of our process, to continue to use our waste and to invest in renewable energy (building biomass boilers on both of our production sites).

Sources: excerpts from full reports titled “The evaluation of the environmental impact of Primapage® thin paper”, “The Evaluation of the Environmental Impact of Primalux® thin paper”, “The Evaluation of the Environmental Impact of Primagreen® thin paper” (edition from June 2009, updated in 2010 and in 2011) and from all the Analyses of the Cycle on Life that followed.