These impacts can include unsustainable management of native forests; effluents from the manufacturing processes containing oxygen depleting substances that affect plants and animals in receiving waters; release of toxic and bioaccumulative substances including for example sulphurous compounds and halogenated organics (from e.g. bleaching); usage of significant amounts energy and production of greenhouse gases during pulp and paper manufacturing processes; and impact from the packaging and disposal of the product at the end of its life.
The standard sets requirements that aim to provide a benefit by:
• The application of sustainable management principles in order to safeguard forests and other areas used to obtain fibre raw materials. It is important that operations are managed in a way that minimises disturbance of natural ecosystems and conserves biodiversity. Third-party certification is a useful tool to verify sustainable forest management.
• The reduction of emissions to air and water of certain toxic or otherwise polluting substances, such as oxygen depleting substances, halogenated organics, phosphorus, sulphurous and nitrogen compounds.
• The reduction of environmental damage or risks related to the use of energy (global warming, acidification, ozone depletion, depletion of non-renewable resources) by reducing energy usage and encouraging energy from renewable resources.
• The reduction of environmental damage or risks related to the use of hazardous chemicals.
• Improved waste management, as considerable quantities of waste may be generated between the raw material stage and the completed paper product.
The scope of this standard applies to:
• Toilet paper
• Facial tissues
• Paper towels, hand towels
• Table napkins
• General purpose wipes
• Table coverings, placemats, tray liners
Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has released a new report on the country’s material use, highlighting opportunities to transition to a more circular and sustainable economy.
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