Meeting the 2050 carbon target for paper by print removal

1-2% of global carbon emissions arise in paper production, but the EU plans a 60% cut by 2050. Known process improvements give a 30% cut, but demand may double by 2050: can paper be re-used without recycling by print removal? Three techniques have been developed: abrasion operating in an adhesive wear regime; longer wavelength lasers can ablate toner-print; a solvent can effectively dissolve toner. Energy analysis shows that print removal requires around 10% of the energy required for a new sheet and if this method supplies 80% of future demand, the 2050 carbon target could be achieved. (c) 2008 CIRP.