Why is paper waste a problem?

Environmentally friendly paper types

Every day we generate more garbage, contributing to waste becoming a big problem, but some solutions are in our hands. From the time of purchase to when we throw away the garbage, we can implement simple measures that significantly reduce both the volume and the hazardousness of our waste.

Every day we generate more waste, thus contributing to waste becoming a big problem, but some solutions are in our hands. From the moment we buy to when we throw away the garbage, we can implement simple measures that significantly reduce both the volume and the hazardousness of our waste.

Consequences of paper misuse

Population growth and the consumption of goods and services have increased the amount of waste and solid waste. This work proposes recycling as an alternative for the management of solid waste (paper, cardboard, glass and plastic) produced in Las Minas de Baruta. It was carried out in three phases. Phase I, dissemination of the recycling proposal, to make known its scope, advantages and benefits; phase II, elaboration of the diagnosis of the study area to identify, describe, analyze and evaluate the problems of waste management; phase III, structuring of the project with the actions for its implementation. The interview technique was used and field visits were made. Recycling is proposed as a program for the reuse of solid waste in the sector, including the collection and separation of solid waste, the transportation system and the sale of waste.

Population growth and increased consumption of goods and services have increased the amount of waste and solid waste. This paper proposes recycling as an alternative for the management of solid waste (paper, cardboard, glass and plastic) produced in the Minas de Baruta. It was conducted in three phases. PhaseI, disclosure of the proposed recycling, to divulge its scope, advantages and benefits; PhaseII, making the diagnosis of the study area to identify, describe, analyze and evaluate the problem of waste management; Phase III, structuring actions for implementation of project. The interview technique was used and field visits were made. Recycling and reuse program, including the collection and separation of solid waste, the transport system and sale of waste is proposed.

What kind of pollutants are papers

Paper production is one of the industrial activities with the greatest negative impact on the environment. Its manufacturing, distribution and consumption process involves the overexploitation of natural resources that are harmful to nature.

According to a report by the Environmental Paper Network, paper consumption has reached unsustainable levels and is steadily increasing globally. It recently exceeded 400 million tons per year globally.

Moreover, according to the environmental NGO Greenpeace, the origin of these fibers is divided as follows: 54% comes from secondary forests, 17% from primary or “virgin” forests and 29% from forest plantations. This means that forests are the main source of raw material for paper production -especially primary forests with high ecological value.

So much so that Greenpeace states that of all the wood harvested for industrial activities, 40% belongs to paper manufacturing. Therefore, there has been a high level of forest destruction through tree felling.

Causes of paper

Although it may not seem so, the environmental impacts of paper on the planet due to its use in an inconsistent manner are actually causing negative effects on nature, mainly derived from the large amounts of cellulose (material that comes from trees) needed for its manufacture.

From the previous scheme that summarizes the environmental impact of paper, it is understood by PCF, which refers to the bleaching of recycled paper in its production and TCF (Totally Chlorine Free Production) and ECF, which is free of elemental chlorine. We can learn more about the scheme from HERE.

After testing the consequences of paper misuse, there is no doubt that we need to use paper on a daily basis, but we have many tools at our fingertips to try to reduce paper consumption or try to minimize its impact on nature, for example, by using recycled paper.

If we look at the future of the paper industry at an international level. From the report The Forest Fiber Industry – 2050 Roadmap to a low carbon bioeconomy that you can consult HERE, it states that the future shows positive data from an environmental perspective although demand will decline: