What Is Recycled Paper and How Is It Made?
Recycled paper is produced from fibers recovered from post-consumer waste. Its production process includes several key stages:
- Collection and sorting of used paper
- Pulping and decontamination, where inks, staples, and plastics are removed
- Fiber refining, to enhance strength and uniformity
- Manufacturing of new rolls ready for various industrial applications
At Arrosi, we work with high-quality recycled paper that goes through creping and transformation processes, ensuring optimal texture, strength, and consistency for industrial packaging use.
Benefits of Recycled Paper in the Industrial Sector
Choosing recycled paper in the industrial field is more than an ecological decision—it´s a strategy that directly impacts process efficiency, resource optimization, and corporate image. At Arrosi, we understand that each client requires solutions that merge technical performance with environmental responsibility. That’s why we ensure recycled paper achieves the perfect balance between both.
Want to dive deeper into this approach? Read our article on sustainability in crepe paper: recycling, biodegradability, and environmental commitment.
1. Positive Environmental Impact
The use of recycled paper contributes to the circular economy—a production model that extends the lifecycle of materials and reduces dependency on virgin resources. Each ton of recycled paper prevents the cutting down of up to 17 trees and reduces CO₂ emissions by more than 30% compared to virgin fiber production. At Arrosi, this vision is embedded in our manufacturing processes, which aim to minimize waste and maximize the use of recovered fibers.
2. Resource Savings
Producing recycled paper requires 30% to 50% less energy and water than virgin paper. This reduction not only relieves pressure on scarce natural resources but also offers significant cost savings for industries handling large volumes of packaging. Arrosi enables clients to lower indirect energy costs while achieving their sustainability goals.
3. Technical Versatility
Far from being a limited product, today’s recycled paper benefits from technical advances that ensure high-quality results. It can be produced in various weights, textures, and finishes—suitable for uses such as crepe paper, industrial rolls, or specialty papers with protective coatings. Arrosi guarantees the mechanical strength and consistency the industrial sector demands in every batch.
4. Sustainable Brand Image
In a market where consumers increasingly value environmental responsibility, using recycled paper sends a clear message: the company prioritizes sustainability. Responsible packaging becomes a differentiator that strengthens brand identity. Arrosi supports brands in this transition, delivering materials that meet technical standards while preserving the added value of sustainability.
Applications of Recycled Paper in Industrial Packaging
Recycled paper is not a generic material—it is an adaptable solution for different industrial packaging contexts. Its versatility allows it to replace less sustainable materials, offering competitive alternatives both technically and economically.
Protection and Wrapping
Recycled paper is used as wrapping and protective material for goods during transport and storage. Its tear resistance and adaptability make it an ideal substitute for bubble wrap or synthetic foams. At Arrosi, we develop recycled paper rolls designed for both automated and manual packaging systems.
Industrial Sacks and Bags
Industrial sacks made from recycled paper can withstand heavy loads and provide a biodegradable and recyclable solution. Boutique or commercial bags can also be reinforced with twisted paper cord handles, resulting in a sustainable and visually appealing final product.
Specialty Papers
Recycling does not hinder innovation. Recycled paper can be enhanced with treatments such as waxing, VCI coatings for corrosion protection, or creping processes that add elasticity and cushioning. As a specialty paper manufacturer, Arrosi designs recycled paper products tailored to sectors like food, pharmaceutical, and metallurgy.
Printing and Labeling
Thanks to its treated surface, recycled paper allows for high-quality printing—enabling the integration of instructions, traceability codes, or brand identity directly into the packaging material. This streamlines processes and strengthens brand presence. Arrosi ensures all its recycled paper products have a flawless finish for these uses.
Technical Challenges and Considerations for Recycled Paper
Despite its advantages, recycled paper comes with technical challenges. Fiber quality depends on the origin and level of contamination in the waste, which may affect material consistency. In high-performance applications requiring maximum strength, blending recycled fibers with virgin ones is sometimes necessary.
At Arrosi, as manufacturers of crepe and specialty papers, we apply creping and transformation techniques to optimize recycled paper performance in industrial applications—without altering its original composition.
Recycled vs. Virgin Paper: A Comparison
Comparing recycled paper and virgin paper doesn’t mean choosing a single winner but finding the right material for each need. Virgin paper offers longer, purer fibers ideal for high-resistance applications. Recycled paper, on the other hand, significantly reduces environmental impact and energy costs, while performing well in most industrial uses.
Arrosi advises clients to find the optimal balance between both materials. Our experience shows that recycled paper can serve the majority of applications, reserving virgin paper for specific cases requiring enhanced strength.
Innovation and the Future of Recycled Paper
Innovation is expanding the potential of recycled paper. Advances in fiber treatment are improving its durability and strength, while technical coatings make it suitable for increasingly specialized industries.
At Arrosi, we invest in R&D to boost recycled paper as the ultimate substitute for plastic materials. Market trends and EU regulations limiting single-use packaging support this evolution, with recycled paper set to play a key role in the coming decade.
Arrosi’s Commitment to Recycled Paper in Packaging Solutions
At Arrosi, manufacturers of crepe paper and specialty papers, we offer recycled paper in formats such as rolls and packaging papers. We design protection, wrapping, and sealing solutions for industrial sacks—bringing strength and sustainability to every project.
