Next Generation of Environmental Driving Forces and Responses for the Pulp and Paper Industry, 2002 International Pulb Bleaching Conference Proceedings

Douglas W. Reeve--In the last decade there has been unprecedented influence of environmental concerns on pulp and paper manufacture and products and we have witnessed dramatic response on the part of the industry. The driving issues have centered on forest use, solid waste and .toxic. chemicals. In the next generation, these issues will persist with continuing calls for minimal impact of manufacturing operations and products.

In the year 2020, what will be required of manufacturers? Zero discharge? Odour-free pulp mills? No endocrine disrupting compounds? No contribution to carbon dioxide emissions? No unsightly plumes? Energy-free manufacturing? In the year 2020, what will be required of paper products? 100% recyclability? Reusability? All packaging returned to the packager? All this and high return on investment!

In the year 2020, what will be required of forest managers? Will there be a minimum yield per hectare required? Will genetically modified trees be permitted? What will minimal impact forestry look like?

The challenges are many; the system is global and political and the materials highly complex. What path for a great future?