Recently, CEPI, Intergraf, FEFCO, Pro Carton, European Paper Packaging Alliance, European Organization Seminar, Paper and Board Suppliers Association, European Carton Manufacturers Association, Beverage Carton and Environment Alliance signed a joint statement.

The lasting impact of the energy crisis “jeopardizes the survival of our industry in Europe”. The statement said that the extension of the forest based value chain has provided about 4 million jobs for the green economy and jobs for one fifth of European manufacturing enterprises.

These institutions said: “Our operations are seriously threatened by the soaring energy costs. Pulp and paper mills must make difficult decisions to temporarily stop or reduce production throughout Europe.”

“Similarly, the downstream user departments in the packaging, printing and health value chain are also facing a similar dilemma, in addition to struggling due to limited material supply.

“The energy crisis threatens the supply of printed products in all economic markets, from textbooks, advertising, food and drug labels to various packaging,” said Intergraf, the International Federation of Printing and Related Industries.

“The printing industry is currently experiencing a double blow of soaring raw material costs and rising energy costs. Because of their SME based structure, many printing companies will not be able to maintain this situation for a long time.” In this regard, the institutions representing pulp, paper and paperboard manufacturers also called for Europe wide action on energy.

The statement stated that “the lasting impact of the continuing energy crisis is deeply worrying. It endangers the survival of our sector in Europe. Lack of action may lead to permanent loss of jobs throughout the value chain, especially in rural areas.” The statement also stressed that high energy costs may threaten business continuity and may “eventually lead to an irreversible decline in global competitiveness”.

“In order to ensure the future of the green economy in Europe after the winter of 2022/2023, policy action needs to be taken immediately, because more and more factories and producers are shutting down due to uneconomical operation caused by energy costs.