Steinbeis Papier Unveils TOWARDS ZERO Strategy

Steinbeis Papier has launched TOWARDS ZERO, a sustainability strategy outlining how the German recycled paper producer plans to achieve climate-neutral production by 2040.

Based in Glückstadt, the company, Europe’s market leader in graphic papers made from 100% recovered fibre, has set clear interim targets. By 2030, Steinbeis aims to reduce direct and energy-related emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) by 96%, while cutting total emissions across the value chain (Scopes 1–3) by 73%, compared with its 1990 baseline.

The strategy places transparency at its core, with full reporting of the company’s carbon footprint in line with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. This includes emissions from the Glückstadt production site, purchased energy and the broader value chain.

“The Corporate Carbon Footprint is our compass on the journey TOWARDS ZERO,” said Andreas Steenbock, Sustainability Manager at Steinbeis Papier, adding that transparent reporting helps identify effective climate mitigation measures together with partners.

Key actions include increasing the share of green electricity to 80% by 2026 and reaching 100% renewable power by 2030, further improving energy efficiency and working with suppliers to reduce emissions across the supply chain. The company is also evaluating future technologies such as carbon capture and storage and green hydrogen to address residual emissions.

Steinbeis Papier’s approach builds on circular production systems long used at its Glückstadt site, including the use of 100% recovered fibre, a largely closed water cycle and integrated energy generation.

“We are convinced that we can transition to climate-neutral production processes by 2040,” said Managing Director Marc Gebauer. “It requires investment and innovation, but it is essential for the future of our industry.”

Source: Paper Advance