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Key Issues

CPI represents its members on many key issues effecting our industry. Read out some of them here. 

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PaperWorks

Discover a world of paper and cardboard with PaperWorks, the Paper Industry’s award winning school resource.

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Paper Myths & Facts

Environmental issues related to paper and cardboard are a source of numerous myths and misconceptions. Learn the facts.

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Industry Information

CPI provides a range of information including reports, annual reviews, industry statistics, fact sheets, position papers and much more.

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An Introduction to Paper

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What is Paper?

Paper is an amazing and incredibly versatile substance made from naturally occurring plant fibres called cellulose. Originally derived from cloth rags and grasses, paper is now mostly made with wood fibres, much of which comes from recycled paper.

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The History of Paper

The name ‘paper’ comes from the Latin papyrus which was made from a grass-like plant, sliced into layers and then beaten into sheets. This is why many people think that the first paper was made by the Egyptians.  In fact it wasn't!  Read on to find out more.

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How is Paper Made?

Paper pulp is made from trees, though it can also be made from bamboo, cotton, hemp, jute, and a wide range of other plant materials. From the wet end of the machine to the dry end, our diagram details the papermaking process and illustrates the extensive use of recovered paper.

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Latest News

UK Paper Mills part of project that wins a prestigious environmental award at COP 30 in Brazil

November 25, 2025

The UK winner of the ‘outstanding project’ category was Flue2Chem – with Holmen Iggesund Workington Board Mill, UPM Caledonian Mill, and the Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI) being three of the project partners.Read More

New Guidelines

CPI statement on recyclability

Following the completion of the Papercycle project, CPI no longer provides a review service or engages in technical discussions regarding how materials would be processed within a standard paper mill.

CPI is unable to provide advice on recyclability of specific product specifications, nor can it offer advisory services relating to laboratory testing or the evaluation of test results, or recommend suppliers offering such services. Such activities fall outside the scope of the association. This applies to both finished products and products under development.

CPI continues to offer guidance at the design stage through its Design for Recyclability Guidelines, which remain current and are regularly updated. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to these documents for relevant information.

Please also note that CPI is not able to provide advice on the application and interpretation of the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM). For any queries related to the RAM, stakeholders are advised to contact Defra or PackUK, who are best placed to provide guidance.

We are the Confederation of Paper Industries

The Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI) is the leading organisation working on behalf of the UK’s Paper-based Industries.

CPI represents the supply chain for paper, comprising paper and board manufacturers and converters, corrugated packaging producers, makers of soft tissue papers and collectors of paper for recycling.

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