Corrugated kraft paper has become a staple in packaging worldwide due to its strength, durability, and eco-friendly properties. From shipping boxes to retail packaging, this versatile material is in constant demand. But just how much corrugated kraft paper is produced annually? In this post, we’ll dive into the statistics behind global production, with a focus on Australia, and explore the impact this material has on industries and the environment.
Global Production of Corrugated Kraft Paper
The global production of corrugated packaging materials, including corrugated kraft, has seen a steady increase over the years. As of 2021, the global production of corrugated packaging reached approximately 160 million tons, and this figure continues to rise due to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in industries such as e-commerce, retail, and food delivery.
Much of this growth is driven by the shift away from plastic packaging towards more environmentally friendly options. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that paper and cardboard (including corrugated kraft) accounted for 31.4% of global packaging production in 2018, and this share has only expanded as more businesses adopt sustainable packaging practices.
Corrugated Kraft Paper Production in Australia
Australia plays a significant role in the production and use of corrugated kraft paper. In 2020, the country produced 3.9 million tons of paper and paperboard products, a large portion of which included corrugated kraft paper used for packaging. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the paper product manufacturing industry generated $7.6 billion in revenue in 2020, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable packaging.
The country’s focus on environmental sustainability and recycling has bolstered the production and use of corrugated kraft paper. The Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment emphasizes the importance of using recyclable materials like corrugated kraft to meet the goals of the 2025 National Packaging Targets, which aim to have all packaging recyclable, compostable, or reusable by 2025.
Visit the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment to learn more about Australia’s commitment to sustainable packaging solutions.
Why Corrugated Kraft Paper Production is Increasing
Several factors contribute to the growing production of corrugated kraft paper:
1. E-commerce Boom: The rise of online shopping has dramatically increased the demand for shipping boxes and protective packaging, which is often made from corrugated kraft. In 2020, e-commerce sales in Australia grew by 57%, and businesses have responded by increasing their use of corrugated packaging to meet delivery needs.
2. Sustainability Goals: Many companies are making the switch from plastic to biodegradable materials, with corrugated kraft being one of the top choices. Businesses are under pressure to meet corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives, and corrugated kraft paper is seen as a more eco-friendly alternative.
3. Recyclability: Corrugated kraft is highly recyclable, with an estimated 92% of cardboard being recycled in Australia. The high recycling rate encourages manufacturers to continue using this material, knowing that it will have a lower environmental impact.
The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is working with businesses to improve packaging sustainability, including increasing the recyclability of materials like corrugated kraft paper.
How Corrugated Kraft is Used Across Industries
Corrugated kraft paper is used in a wide variety of industries. Its main use is in the production of corrugated boxes, which are essential for shipping and storage. The paper’s fluted design provides strength and durability while remaining lightweight, making it ideal for protecting goods in transit.
Other common uses include:
• Retail Packaging: Many retailers use corrugated kraft for eco-friendly product packaging.
• Food Industry: Corrugated kraft is often used for packaging takeout containers and produce boxes.
• Construction Materials: The strength of corrugated kraft makes it useful in the construction industry for protective barriers and packaging of building materials.
The Environmental Impact of Corrugated Kraft Paper
One of the key reasons corrugated kraft paper is in such high demand is its relatively low environmental impact. It’s made primarily from natural wood fibers, which are biodegradable and can be recycled multiple times before the fibers become too short for reuse. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has promoted increased recycling efforts for materials like corrugated kraft to reduce waste sent to landfills.
Moreover, the production of corrugated kraft often involves using sustainably sourced wood, helping to maintain forest ecosystems. In fact, according to the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), a significant portion of the wood used in the paper industry comes from certified sustainable forests, ensuring that resources are managed responsibly.
Case Study: How a Major Retailer Reduced Plastic Use with Corrugated Kraft
A leading Australian retailer made a shift from plastic packaging to corrugated kraft paper as part of their sustainability initiative. By switching to corrugated kraft for shipping boxes, the company reduced its plastic use by 500 tons annually. Not only did this improve their environmental footprint, but it also aligned with consumer preferences for more eco-friendly packaging.
This retailer worked closely with suppliers to ensure that their packaging materials were made from 100% recycled kraft paper, which further reduced their reliance on virgin materials. The move helped the company enhance its reputation as a sustainability leader in the retail sector and contributed to its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030.
The Future of Corrugated Kraft Paper Production
As the global shift towards sustainability continues, the production of corrugated kraft paper is expected to grow. Businesses are increasingly adopting eco-friendly packaging to meet consumer demand and regulatory requirements, driving further innovation in kraft paper production.
In Australia, the Australian Paper Industry Association (APIA) predicts continued growth in the production of paper products, particularly in response to environmental regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste.
The Growing Demand for Corrugated Kraft Paper
The production of corrugated kraft paper is on the rise globally and in Australia, driven by the need for sustainable packaging alternatives. From shipping boxes to retail and food packaging, corrugated kraft is an essential material that offers both environmental benefits and versatility.
If you’re looking for biodegradable and recyclable packaging solutions for your business, ZenPacks offers a wide range of corrugated kraft paper products. Explore our wholesale options at ZenPacks, your trusted supplier of eco-friendly packaging solutions.
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