Dubai, UAE: When Paperworld Middle East opens its doors for the 6th time tomorrow (1 March) in Dubai, more than 50 of the 300-plus exhibitors from 36 countries are expected to launch new products in the Middle East and African market.
But it’s an eco-friendly paper made from stone which takes 50 per cent less energy to manufacture, and creates 50 per cent less CO2 than pulp paper, that will garner plenty attention from the thousands of expected trade visitors from throughout the wider region.
British Company Parax Paper is introducing the environmentally-friendly and fully recyclable paper, which they say requires no trees, water or bleach to manufacture, and is completely waterproof, grease and oil proof, and tear-resistant.
Harvey Djanogly, Director of Parax Paper, said the stone paper comprises 80 per cent limestone (Calcium Carbonate) powder and 20 per cent non-toxic, photodegradable resin, creating an extremely durable product used for a range of applications, from soap wrappers, tickets, and labels, to notebooks, paper bags, and packaging.
“If we were to replace one ton of virgin pulp paper with one ton of stone paper, we’d save 15,000 gallons of water,” said Djanogly. “We believe that everyone has an interest in being more eco-friendly, and we offer people a way to carry out this aim with no loss of comfort or practicality.
“Lessening of paper usage was predicted due to the digital revolution but this didn’t happen,” he added. “Demand for paper is expected to double before 2030, and if we can influence people to switch to more eco-friendly sources, that would be terrific. Even better if we could bring production of our product to the Middle East.”
Parax Stone Paper will spearhead a flood of eco-friendly products being showcased at Paperworld Middle East’s Green Office Area, a dedicated zone that promotes sustainably produced and eco-friendly paper, stationery and office products that have now firmly become an important aspect in the long terms strategy of most businesses.
The section returns for the fifth year at the three-day event, and continues to be popular with trade visitors thanks to growing demand for eco-friendly and recycled paper products and stationery that exists among regional consumers.
“The success of the Green Office Area at Paperworld Middle East indicates the growing awareness among regional consumers of the importance of sustainably produced paper-based products and stationery,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the organiser of Paperworld Middle East.
“The section also highlights the tremendous increase in innovative and eco-friendly products that are currently transforming the face of the industry. Parax Stone Paper is one example, while leading global manufacturers are also putting the spotlight on their latest ranges of recycled and sustainably produced paper-based products and office supplies.”
Other companies at the Green Office Area include Thai manufacturer Double A; Portuguese stalwart The Navigator Company, currently the world’s 6th largest paper producer; Telepaper from Malaysia, German adhesive producer Tesa; and NGR Paper from Dubai.
Taking place from 1-3 March at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Paperworld Middle East 2016 is expected attract more than 6,000 trade buyers from 105 countries.
Other returning features at the annual showcase include the Wrapstar gift wrapping competition; and the Paperworld Recycling Competition, an inspirational showcase of artwork and sculptures created by UAE school children and made entirely from recycled school stationery.