“You cannot solve a problem with the same mind that created it.”- Albert Einstein 

Challenges facing us today, as Einstein's quote suggests, cannot be resolved by the same mindset that created them. In the realm of business, this means that producing to meet supply needs without considering the effects on the environment will ultimately destroy both our future and our present. And we need a sustainable solution that wouldn’t compensate tomorrow for today’s needs.  

The global paper industry stands at a critical point, facing both unprecedented challenges and opportunities in the realm of sustainability. As one of the largest industrial sectors worldwide, the industry has significant environmental impact and responsibility to drive positive change. In Austria, the paper industry mirrors these global trends with €14 billion in projected sales by 2028 faces its own set of opportunities and challenges in pursuing sustainability.  

“Deforestation is changing our climate, harming people and the natural world. We must, and can reverse this trend.” – Jane Goodall 

The Alarming Rate of Deforestation 

The scale of global deforestation is staggering. The pulp and paper industry accounts for about 40% of all industrial wood traded globally, making it one of major contributors to deforestation. This impact is particularly severe in regions with high biodiversity and vulnerable ecosystems. The statistics paint a grim picture:2 

• Approximately 15 billion trees are cut down each year. 
• At the current pace, there could be no more trees left in 200 years. 
• Forests are being destroyed at a rate of about 28 million hectares per year. 
• This equates to losing a football field of forest every single second, day in and day out. 

These statistics underscore the urgent need for paper companies to go beyond current sustainability measures and actively contribute to environmental restoration. 

The Hidden Costs of Paper Production 

Despite advancements in recycling and sustainable forestry practices, paper production still exacts a heavy toll on the environment: 

• Carbon Emissions: Deforestation is responsible for 11-12 percent of all CO2-emissions and the second largest human source of emissions after fossil fuel combustion.2 
• Water Usage: Producing one kilogram of paper requires about 324 liters of water.3 
• Energy Consumption: The paper industry is the 5th largest consumer of energy worldwide.4 
• Pollution: Paper production is responsible for significant air and water pollution. 

“Forests are the world’s air-conditioning system – the lungs of the planet – and we are on the verge of switching it off.” – Prince Charles. 

Compensating for Environmental Impact: Get Partner in Sustainability 

The TwoWings Foundation, based in Linz, offers paper companies in Austria a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference through its Planting Hope initiative, which helps offset their environmental footprints. By collaborating with us, companies can:  

• Directly contribute to reforestation efforts 
• Support sustainable development in communities affected by environmental degradation 
• Enhance their corporate social responsibility profile 
• Align their business practices with global sustainability goals 

Conclusion:  

The paper companies in Austria by partnering with organizations like TwoWings Foundation and investing in environmental restoration can not only offset their environmental impact but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. 

The time for action is now. We invite paper companies in Austria to join us in this vital mission. Together, we can turn the page on environmental degradation and write a new chapter of sustainability and hope. 

Let's get in touch: cooperation@twowings.com