PSI Fall Meeting – The Power of Paper

It’s not too late to combat the effects of global warming, and the paper recycling industry can play a leading role in reversing global climate change, according to Anthony Pratt, CEO of Pratt Industries, who delivered the keynote address at the annual fall meeting of the Paper Stock Industries (PSI) chapter of ISRI, which was held recently in California.

“The planet is in trouble, but that’s not to say it’s necessarily doomed,” Pratt said. He said since deforestation is one of the largest contributing factors to global warming, the paper recycling industry can contribute to the fight against climate change by offering an alternative to using virgin fiber.

Businesses can lead the way by encouraging the use of recycled material, he said, pointing out that every box made from virgin material can be recycled 15 times and that 2 tons of carbon emissions are saved by recycling 1 ton of paper.

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In addition to encouraging the use of recycled fiber, businesses can seek to reduce their own carbon footprint by exploring green energy technologies. For instance, Pratt Industries is exploring the use of methane gas a fuel source, according to Anthony Pratt.

Pratt Industries is also looking to introduce the gasification technology it has employed in three of its Australian locations to the United States.

As traditional energy costs continue to rise, Pratt said more businesses are discovering new financial incentives to look for alternative energy—like the waste-to-energy market—to cut their own costs and become greener operations in the process.