In recent years, we have witnessed a notable transformation in the perception of climate change. Previously considered an abstract and distant concept, today its effects have manifested themselves in tangible and alarming ways through extreme phenomena such as heat waves, devastating floods and persistent droughts. These events have served as a wake-up call, prompting people to recognize the imminent threat that climate change poses to our planet, humanity, and everyday life. This change in public perception is crucial as it fosters a deeper understanding of the urgency of adopting sustainable measures and modifying our consumption habits to mitigate their effects.
A recent study by MINTEL CONSULTING highlights how these extreme weather events are changing the way society understands and responds to climate change. It is no longer seen as a concern for future generations, but as a current crisis that requires immediate and committed action. In 2021, 52% of Spaniards answered affirmatively to the question “do I think the country where I live is suffering from climate change?”, and in 2023, the affirmation has risen to 58%, an increase of 6 points in just two years. Furthermore, the study reveals a growing awareness about the importance of adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives to combat climate change.
In this context, paper bags have been positioned as a key element in the fight against climate change. The role of paper forest plantations as carbon dioxide sinks is being re-evaluated and valued more than ever. These plantations, through the magical process of photosynthesis, capture CO2 from the environment. In Spain, these paper plantations capture and store 46.5 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent, playing a vital role in climate regulation. This process not only contributes to the reduction of CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, but also converts paper products, such as paper bags, into long-term carbon stores.
The relationship between paper and CO2 capture is remarkable. It has been shown that each kilogram of paper produced has the potential to capture and store approximately 1.3 kilograms of CO2 equivalent, for life. Even after recycling, each recycled cellulose fiber retains the CO2 it once captured naturally. This data highlights the importance of sustainable practices in the paper industry, not only in terms of sustainability, circular economy and responsible use of resources, but also as an effective strategy for climate change mitigation.
By making conscious choices about the products we use, such as choosing paper bags, we are taking a simple but impactful action that citizens can take to help combat climate change.
By choosing paper products that come from renewable natural sources and participating in their recycling cycle, depositing the bags in the blue container, we are contributing not only to the reduction of waste, but also to the capture of CO2, helping to mitigate the effects adverse effects of climate change. With every sustainable choice, we move towards a greener and less vulnerable future.
