Through this initiative, the graphic and paper sector is the first sector to demonstrate its commitment as an industry to the fight against climate change, in either Belgium or Europe. The initiative came from the Paper Chain Forum which represents the entire "Chaîne du Papier" organisation and disseminates information about the sustainable relationship between paper production and the environment, across its network.

The 12 Professional Associations, the members of the Paper Chain Forum, are resolutely committed to the establishment and development of a sustainable co-existence between paper and trees, recycling and reducing their carbon footprint.

"We are very proud that the 12 Associations, comprising 5000 companies and 60000 workers are committed to supporting and carrying out the fight against climate change. The Paper Chain already has a long tradition of involvement and achievement regarding the sustainable relationship between paper production and the environment. Within this Environmental Charter, the industry is setting out its voluntary agenda which aims to achieve still greater environmental progress". Declared Frimin François, President of the Paper Chain Forum.

Fight Against Illegal Deforestation
In the Charter, the Belgian Paper Chain formally commits to supporting the global fight against illegal deforestation. The industry and forest owners wholeheartedly support the forestry certification system and the control chain that guarantees sustainable forest growth for the entire process. Currently, 300 million hectares of forest, of which 25% is grown for production, are registered to globally-recognised institutions. 40% of Belgian forest is certified either to the PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes) or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

More Recycling
The Paper Chain continues to attempt to increase the percentage of collection and recycling of used paper. In 2006, nearly 2.3 million tonnes of used paper was collected, which represents 60% of the nation's total consumption of paper and cardboard. The sector is committed to pushing the boundaries of the production and use of recycled paper still further.

Reduced Carbon Footprint
In order to contribute to the sustainable development of forests and to encourage recycling, the Paper Chain is committed to improving and increasing the absorption of carbon dioxide by trees.  Over a period of 15 years, carbon dioxide emissions per tonne of paper produced have fallen by 25%.

The paper and graphic industry is working hard to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by improving its companies' energy efficiency. Sectors involved in paper manufacture, treatment and the graphic industry have, for example, signed carbon dioxide contracts with public authority which aim to substantially reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

"Despite the efforts of the Paper Chain, public opinion still persists, that the paper and graphics industry is responsible for the destruction of trees and plays a major role in carbon dioxide pollution. In fact, in practice, the reverse is true. The Belgian Environmental Paper Chain is reinforcing once more, the fact that our industry does not make empty promises, but rather actively strengthens the relationship between paper and a sustainable environment", concludes Firmin François.

The members of the 12 Professional Associations who together represent the "Chaîne du Papier" : Cobelpa, Fetra, Pro Carton, Grape, VDP, Febelgra (Member of FESPA), Coverec Paper, Benecell, Febem, KBBM, The Press and UPP.

www.febelgra.be

www.paperchainforum.org