15 Apr. 2025: The European pulp and paper industry reaffirmed its ambitious commitment to eliminating fossil fuel use during a high-profile event at the European Parliament on April 8, 2025.

As Europe's fourth-largest industrial energy consumer, the sector has already achieved an impressive 46% reduction in CO2 emissions since 2005, demonstrating significant decoupling of industrial growth from environmental impact.

Cepi, the Confederation of European Paper Industries, highlighted ongoing initiatives through its Energy Efficiency Solutions Forum (EESF), a collaborative effort engaging renewable energy specialists, financiers, and policymakers. The forum supports the industry's transition, which aligns with EU mandates targeting a 62% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030.

Currently investing over €5 billion annually in clean energy, the pulp and paper sector is set to benefit substantially from the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal announced in February. This initiative includes measures like green public procurement, a €100 billion investment fund for decarbonisation technologies, and regulatory frameworks designed to bolster Europe's bioeconomy.

Cepi estimates that such strategic investments could further enhance renewable on-site electricity and heat production by nearly 31 TWh by 2030, significantly expanding upon the current production of 50 TWh. However, achieving these targets requires a dramatic increase in investment levels—up to seven times current rates, according to EU Commission projections.

At the heart of Cepi’s presentation was the launch of the REINVEST 2050 report, featuring 28 recent real-world case studies that successfully phase out fossil fuels despite challenges like rising energy and material costs. Cepi Director General, Jori Ringman, emphasized the critical role of collaboration, stating, "The REINVEST 2050 case studies serve as proof that industrial decarbonisation is achievable through strategic investments, innovative technologies, and supportive regulatory environments."

Building upon this momentum, the second Cepi EESF Day is set to convene nearly 150 energy and paper sector experts, reinforcing collaborative pathways essential for achieving Europe's industrial decarbonisation goals.

Cepi, the Confederation of European Paper Industries, represents the European pulp and paper sector. It advocates for the industry’s sustainable development, competitiveness, and innovation, driving forward solutions that support Europe’s transition to a circular bioeconomy.