The Sustainable Roots of India’s Paper Industry
Do you think tissue paper hurts forest? Here’s the real story!
Unlike in many parts of the world, the paper industry in India stands apart as it is not forest-dependent but agro- and farm-forestry-based. The paper industry sources over 90% of its wood requirements through industry-driven agroforestry, actively collaborating with the farming community. It meets the remaining demand from government and other sources, minimizing environmental disruption.
This approach has fostered a significant partnership between the paper industry and farmers. Currently, an estimated 500,000 farmers across the country actively cultivate plantations of species like Eucalyptus, Subabul, Casuarina, Acacia, and Poplar. Each year, they bring an average of 125,000 hectares under agroforestry, contributing to a cumulative total of 1.2 million hectares over the years. These efforts, championed by paper mills, have not only strengthened the supply chain but have also improved rural livelihoods by offering a sustainable and lucrative income stream for farmers.
The industry employs three primary raw materials to produce paper, ensuring efficient and sustainable operations:
- Recovered Paper / Recycled Fibre (RCF) accounts for 71% of production, highlighting the industry’s strong focus on sustainability.
- Wood / Bamboo contributes 21%, with these materials being responsibly sourced, often through agroforestry practices.
- Agro Residue – 8% of production relies on agricultural by-products like bagasse and wheat straw, minimizing waste and supporting eco-friendly practices.
Classification by Finished Products
The paper produced is further categorized based on its end use:
- Packaging Paper / Paperboard – Dominating the market with a 65% share, these products cater to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
- Writing & Printing Paper – Accounting for 23%, this segment supports educational and corporate needs.
- Newsprint – With a 5% share, it serves the publishing and media industry.
- Specialty Paper – At 4%, this category includes tissue papers, security papers, and other niche products.
- Others – Comprising 3%, these include various custom or specialized paper solutions.
This distribution highlights the Indian paper industry’s dedication to recycling, efficient resource utilization, and catering to diverse market demands. The focus on recycled fibre and agro-residues showcases the industry’s efforts in reducing environmental impact while meeting global and domestic needs.
Among India’s natural resources, pulpwood stands out for its fast growth and sustainability. Certain species mature into full-grown trees within just 3.5 years, making them an excellent renewable resource. The economic value of wood not only enhances farmers’ incomes but also generates employment opportunities, especially in rural areas, thereby contributing to economic development and environmental sustainability.
A Call for a Greener Tomorrow
At Kosher, we take pride in promoting sustainable practices in tissue production and believe that protecting our planet is a shared responsibility. We encourage everyone in society to join hands in creating a greener world by planting more trees. Together, let’s nurture nature and ensure a better future for generations to come. Learn more about Kosher initiatives on our social page.
Data sourced from IPMA
