Limited climate benefits of global recycling of pulp and paper

Waste recycling is part of a circular economy, but for some materials its environmental benefits are unclear. Looking at the circularity of the global paper life cycle, under various levels of waste recycling, this study shows that any climate benefits hinge on reducing the carbon intensity of the energy used. A circular economy is expected to achieve sustainability goals through efficient and circular use of materials. Waste recycling is an important part of a circular economy. However, for some materials, the potential environmental benefits of recycling are unclear or contested. Here, we focus on the global paper life cycle, which generates 1.3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and estimate the climate change mitigation potential of circularity. We model material use, energy use and emissions up to 2050 for various levels of waste recycling and recovery. We show that emission pathways consistent with a 2 degrees C global warming target require strong reductions in the carbon intensity of electricity and heat generation. We also show that additional recycling yields small or negative climate change mitigation benefits when it requires high-carbon grid electricity and displaces virgin pulping that is powered by low-carbon pulping by-products. The results indicate that circular economy efforts should carefully consider the energy implications of recycling.

Automated summary

Waste recycling is crucial in a circular economy, but the environmental benefits for certain materials remain uncertain. This study emphasizes the importance of reducing the carbon intensity of energy use for climate benefits, and highlights the need for careful consideration of energy implications in recycling efforts in the circular economy.