Using chlorine-free paper

Description

Using chlorine-free paper involves selecting and promoting paper products that are manufactured without the use of chlorine or chlorine compounds in the bleaching process. This strategy aims to reduce the release of toxic chlorinated pollutants, such as dioxins and furans, into the environment. By adopting chlorine-free paper, organizations and individuals help protect water quality, minimize health risks, and support sustainable forestry practices, directly addressing environmental contamination and public health concerns associated with conventional paper production.

Implementation

A Swedish kraft pulp manufacturing mill is using oxygen instead of chlorine in its paper-bleaching process. The paper is not as white, but publishers in North America and Europe have agreed to use the technology. Increases in chlorine-free paper have reduced organochlorine discharges by 25% in Sweden.