Korea emerges as the world's paper recycling leader in 2013

SEOUL (Scrap Monster): According to latest statistics published by RISI- the US-based paper body, Korea has emerged as the country with highest paper recycling rate in 2013. The country’s paper recycling rate during the year was 92.1%.

The RISI statistics also indicate that Korea ranked fifth in paper production during 2013. The yearly production totaled 11.8 million tons. In terms of paper consumption, the country was ranked ninth. The paper consumption by Korea during the year totaled 9.55 million tons. The country’s paper recycling rates jumped significantly higher during the year, thereby reducing its dependence on imported pulp.

The global paper and board production increased 0.8% during 2013 to 403 million tons. The production declined in North American and European region. Among products, graphic paper production slumped during the year. On the other hand, production of tissue and packaging grades remained robust.

China maintained its position as world’s top producer and consumer of paper and board. The country accounted for 25% of the total global demand. Also, 26% of the global paper and board output came from China.

The US remained the largest pulp producer during 2013 with 49.4 million tonnes. In second place was Canada with 17.3 million tonnes, followed by China with 17.1 million tonnes.

RISI is the leading information provider for the global forest products industry. It has 10 offices globally in North and South America, Europe and Asia and is a subsidiary of AXIO Data Group.