Sustainability at the heart of the pulp and paper industry’s water use

Water is an essential yet often overlooked resource in the printing industry. From traditional offset methods to modern digital techniques, water plays a key role in everything from paper production to press operations. However, with growing awareness around environmental sustainability, the spotlight is turning toward how much water is used — and sometimes wasted — in the print process.

Water plays a central, sustainable role in the pulp and paper industry, supporting every stage of the process in environmentally responsible ways. It begins with nature itself—rainwater is essential for the healthy growth of trees, which absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen while creating cellulose, the renewable raw material that fuels the industry.

Beyond forest growth, water is a key component in the papermaking process, where it is used efficiently and purposefully. Recognising this, pulp and paper mills are often situated near renewable water sources to ensure both accessibility and responsible stewardship. In Europe, for example, the majority of water used by mills comes from surface sources like rivers and lakes, while only a small portion is drawn from groundwater or public supplies.

Sustainability efforts have made remarkable progress in reducing water usage. Since the 1990s, European mills have reduced the amount of water used per tonne of paper by about 40%, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and environmental care.

Equally important is the responsible return of water to the environment. In 2022, approximately 90% of the water used in the European paper industry was cleaned, treated, and safely returned to its original source—often after being reused several times within the mill. Only a small fraction was lost to evaporation, absorbed into the final product, or incorporated into residual waste.

To protect aquatic ecosystems, the industry applies advanced water treatment techniques—such as filtration, sedimentation, flotation, and biological processes—to ensure the water returned is safe and clean. These innovations have significantly enhanced the quality of effluent, with a reduction in AOX (toxic chlorine compounds) and a drop in COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) since 1991. These milestones highlight the industry's success in minimizing its environmental footprint.

Equally important is a shift in mindset — viewing water not as an infinite resource, but as a valuable asset worth preserving. Through conscious choices and continuous innovation, the printing industry can lead by example in promoting sustainable practices and safeguarding water for future generations.