Lecta Reduces Carbon Dioxide Emissions by 10% Since 2006

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Lecta, France, has reduced its carbon dioxide emissions per ton of paper by 10% since 2006, as a result of implementing a variety of energy-saving projects, including the start-up of new CHP plants, improvements in manufacturing processes, upgrading equipment, eliminating the use of fuel-oil, and using rail rather than ground transport. In the past two years, despite changes aimed at manufacturing more higher added-value specialty papers, which have entailed lower productivity levels overall, Lecta has continued to reduce emissions to values of 0.36 ton of carbon dioxide per ton of production in 2012.

The paper industry, Lecta explains, is one of the industries best positioned to mitigate climate change. The paper cycle begins with a natural, renewable raw material (trees) that absorbs carbon dioxide during its growth. Stored carbon is not released when trees are cut but remains within the paper products themselves—true carbon dioxide stores. Paper can be recycled several times after use, thereby increasing carbon sequestration time. And even when it is not suitable for recycling, paper can be used as biofuel, as well as biomass, with the consequent reduction in landfill waste volumes and the resulting emissions.

Lecta is one of the largest producers of coated woodfree paper in the world and a leader in the European specialty papers market. It is made up of three companies: Cartiere del Garda in Italy, Condat in France, and Torraspapel in Spain.

Lecta currently has eight mills with a total production capacity of nearly 2 million metric tpy and is recognized worldwide as a reliable, flexible, and customer-centered supplier as well as being a leader in environmental stewardship.

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