The journey of a containerboard box illustrates the growing importance of circularity in today’s push for sustainable production.
International Paper, a global leader in sustainable packaging and fiber-based products, sheds light on this process in its latest white paper, Thinking Inside the Box.
Circularity Starts in the Forest
The lifecycle of a box begins with renewable fiber sourced from sustainably managed forests. These fibers are transported to paper mills, where they are transformed into pulp. This process generates by-products like cooking liquors and biomass, which are reintroduced as carbon-neutral energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Energy Efficiency at the Mill
Paper mills play a pivotal role in the circular lifecycle. International Paper’s mills achieve significant energy savings by leveraging biomass residuals—by-products of the manufacturing process—to produce 70% of their energy. This aligns with the company’s Vision 2030 goals to minimize fossil fuel usage, enhance energy efficiency, and expand renewable energy sources. Additionally, advanced water treatment technologies ensure that resources are responsibly used and reused.
From Pulp to Box
Once the pulp is transformed into containerboard, it moves to converting facilities where rolls of material are cut, shaped, and printed into boxes tailored to customer needs. Waste is minimal in this process; trimmings and scraps are recovered and sent back to mills for recycling into new containerboard.
Recycling for Renewed Life
After their initial use, boxes enter a robust recycling network, including International Paper’s own recycling operations. Recovered materials are broken down at recycling facilities and returned to paper mills to start the process anew. While wood fibers cannot be recycled indefinitely due to eventual degradation, even “lost” fibers find a purpose as biomass fuel, further supporting the circular system.
Commitment to Sustainability
International Paper’s dedication to sustainability extends across its entire value chain. By integrating circular principles, the company ensures that its products are responsibly sourced, manufactured, and recovered. This approach not only conserves resources but also reduces emissions and supports economic efficiency.
Learn More
For an in-depth look at the lifecycle of a box and International Paper’s circular practices, download the Thinking Inside the Box white paper.
About International Paper International Paper is a leading producer of sustainable packaging, pulp, and fiber-based products, as well as one of the world’s largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company employs approximately 39,000 colleagues globally and operates across North America, Latin America, North Africa, and Europe. In 2023, International Paper reported net sales of $18.9 billion.
For its Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) operations, International Paper delivers high-quality corrugated containers and specialty pulp through a network of mills and box plants in France, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.
