Pro Carton releases their Carbon Footprint Study 2025

Pro Carton has published its latest Carbon Footprint Study, providing independently verified data on the climate impact of cartonboard packaging across Europe.

At a time when sustainability claims require greater transparency and comparability, the study offers a robust and credible benchmark for brand owners, retailers and policymakers evaluating packaging materials.

Reliable data builds trust

The study follows recognised European standards, including the CEPI Framework for Carbon Footprints of Paper and Board Products and the CITPA Guidelines for paper-based packaging.

Data was collected from 70 production sites across Europe, representing approximately 60% of European cartonboard production and 16% of folding carton converting. The calculations were carried out by RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden) and independently verified by ifeu – the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research in Heidelberg. This rigorous methodology ensures transparency, consistency and trust.

8% reduction in fossil carbon footprint

Using a cradle-to-gate approach – covering raw material extraction through cartonboard production to the ready-to-fill folding carton – the study shows an 8% reduction in fossil carbon emissions compared to the previous assessment.

Importantly, this progress reflects structural improvements and long-term industrial investments across the value chain rather than short-term compensation mechanisms.

Transparency on emission sources

The analysis provides clarity on where emissions occur. Around 73% of fossil emissions arise during cartonboard production, converting into folding cartons accounts for approximately 21%, while transport represents around 6%.

This level of transparency helps identify where further reduction efforts can have the greatest impact and supports informed decision-making across the packaging value chain.