Addressing Key Emission Drivers in the Pulp and Paper Industry

The pulp and paper sector is crucial in global supply chains but remains among the most energy-intensive industries. As businesses pursue ambitious sustainability goals, reducing emissions has become essential. Identifying the main drivers of these emissions—and determining how to address them—is critical for meeting regulatory requirements and advancing ESG performance. 

Key Factors Influencing Emissions 

Several operational and structural challenges can contribute to elevated emissions across the industry: 

• Outdated Equipment and Infrastructure – Many mills continue to operate older boilers, pulp lines, and paper machines that are less energy-efficient and result in higher emissions compared to modern alternatives. 

• Energy-Intensive Processes – Pulping, refining, and drying require significant energy, often sourced from fossil fuels. This reliance on coal, natural gas, and oil leads to greater carbon intensity compared to mills that have transitioned to renewables or more efficient energy sources. 

• Use of Chemicals and Additives – Certain chemical processes, particularly in pulp bleaching and treatment, can increase environmental impacts if not optimized. Alternative methods or better process control can help improve overall environmental performance. 

• Water Use and Treatment Needs – Mills depend heavily on water for production. Inefficient treatment systems or high discharge volumes can add to energy demands and operational sustainability challenges. 

How FisherSolve^® Helps Mills Advance Sustainability 

Lowering emissions requires more than incremental changes—it demands data-driven strategies. FisherSolve, a comprehensive business intelligence platform tailored for pulp and paper experts, provides the tools and insights needed to pinpoint key drivers and implement effective improvements. 

• Benchmarking Carbon Emissions 
  FisherSolve’s Carbon Emissions Benchmarking module enables companies to measure performance against peers, track Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, and identify high-impact opportunities for improvement. 

• Modeling Upgrades with Virtual Mills 
  Our Virtual Mills feature simulates the financial and environmental outcomes of replacing outdated assets with more efficient technologies—helping companies make confident, future-focused investment decisions. 

• Optimizing Energy and Fuel Choices 
  FisherSolve tracks fuel usage and energy efficiency, supporting transitions toward renewable sources, bio-based fuels, or lower-carbon alternatives that align with global net-zero targets. 

• Improving Water and Resource Management 
  Through detailed water supply and treatment data, FisherSolve helps mills evaluate current practices, reduce water intensity, and identify opportunities to lower emissions from wastewater treatment and related processes. 

Explore the full suite of FisherSolve modules and their specialized capabilities:

Driving Sustainable Growth 

With the right data and tools, companies can modernize operations, reduce their carbon footprint, and strengthen their role in a more sustainable economy. FisherSolve equips industry professionals with the intelligence required to make these transitions—turning operational challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth. 

Navigating sustainability in the pulp and paper industry starts with understanding both the risks and opportunities ahead. From tackling carbon emissions and water usage to capitalizing on the shift from plastic to paper, companies that act now can drive long-term growth and resilience. For deeper insights, explore our eBook In the Green: Profitability and Sustainability in Pulp and Paper.