Pro Carton, the European association representing carton and folding carton manufacturers, has published its Carbon Footprint Study 2025. The study focuses on the climate impact of packaging board produced in Europe, and is based on data verified by independent bodies.
"At a time when sustainability claims demand greater transparency and comparability, this study offers a solid and credible benchmark for brands, retailers and policymakers evaluating packaging materials." says the organization.
The data comes from 70 production sites in Europe. This sample represents around 60% of European cartonboard production and 16% of folding carton converting. The market share of virgin and recycled board is estimated at 51% and 49% respectively.
The approach adopted is known as cradle-to-gate. It integrates the extraction of raw materials, the manufacture of cardboard, then conversion into folding cartons ready for filling. The study does not cover the use and end-of-life phases. Conversion losses have been taken into account in the calculations: it is assumed that 1âeuros196Â tonnes of cardboard are used to produce 1âeuros000Â tonnes of converted boxes.
Between 2021 and 2024, the fossil carbon footprint was reduced by 8%. The organization attributes this to structural improvements and industrial investments across the value chain.
The share of fossil fuels in paper mills will fall from 46% in 2021 to 39% in 2024, in favor of biofuels for heat and electricity production.
Emissions from purchased electricity also fell. The proportion of low-carbon electricity purchased by production sites rose from 23% to 66% over the period.
Conversely, raw materials (excluding cardboard) and logistics slightly increase emissions, but do not jeopardize the overall trend.
"It's important to stress that this progress reflects long-term structural improvements and industrial investment along the entire value chain, rather than short-term compensation mechanisms."
In detail, around 73% of fossil emissions come from cardboard production, 21% from converting into folding cartons and 6% from transport.
