The non-profit making organisation highlighted the paper industry's evolution in recycling and biomass in its recently launched forecast for the industry to 2020 and beyond.

The document hails forests as a bio-diverse, renewable, recyclable and biodegradable resource that can be used to meet society's sustainability needs.

CEPI chairman Magnus Hall has said in the future, sustainability and social responsibility will be at the heart of successful businesses.

He said the paper industry is perfectly placed to play a key role in a sustainable society.

"The sector aims to make optimum use of renewable forest resources and strive for best practice in a bio-based, low-carbon, consumer-driven and globally-competitive European economy."

Teresa Presas, managing director of CEPI, said: "Industry developments, achieved through innovations in technologies, business models, competences and adaptation to changing demands, will make the paper industry and its products even more valuable in years to come."