Thermal paper was first introduced in 1964 by NCR (National Cash Register Corporation), a company based in Ohio, USA. Initially, this product was specifically designed for use in cash register machines, with a chemical coating sensitive to heat, allowing text or images to be printed without ink.
Later, in the 1970s, thermal paper expanded into various sectors, such as banking, retail, and transportation, due to its efficiency, speed, and ease of use. However, despite its practical benefits, thermal paper significantly negatively impacts the environment, mainly related to carbon emissions.
The Environmental Impact of Thermal Paper Production
Thermal paper is made from wood pulp, which relies heavily on tree cutting and deforestation. The deforestation resulting from logging for pulp production eventually reduces the ability of forests to absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere, thereby contributing to increased carbon emissions and exacerbating climate change.
Furthermore, wood pulp processing requires large amounts of energy, often sourced from fossil fuels, resulting in a high carbon footprint. In addition to this, thermal paper is coated with chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA) or Bisphenol S (BPS) to give it its thermal properties.
The production of these chemicals requires additional energy and contributes even more carbon emissions. Additionally, the distribution of thermal paper, which is produced globally and shipped to various locations via land, sea, and air transport, is another factor that worsens the increase in carbon emissions due to transportation.
Challenges in Recycling Thermal Paper
Moreover, billions of receipts are printed daily, generating tons of thermal paper waste yearly. These paper receipts are typically single-use, have a very short lifespan, and most end up in landfills.
Thermal paper waste is difficult to recycle due to the chemical contents, such as Bisphenol A (BPA) or Bisphenol S (BPS). When this waste breaks down in landfills under anaerobic conditions, the decomposition process can produce methane gas (CH₄).
This greenhouse gas is more potent than carbon dioxide and contributes to global warming. This shows that although thermal paper may seem trivial, excessive and unrestricted usage can cause significant environmental damage.
Sustainable Alternatives and Solutions
The growing public awareness and concern about thermal paper’s environmental impacts have led to the adoption of various alternative solutions. One of these solutions is the digitization of receipts through e-receipts, which allows consumers to receive receipts in digital formats, such as via email or apps, thereby eliminating the need for thermal paper.
The “opt-in receipt” policy, where consumers only receive paper receipts when requested, can also help reduce the volume of thermal paper used. Furthermore, innovations can be sought to improve waste management systems, making them more efficient.
One way to do this is by introducing specialized recycling programs for thermal paper in recycling facilities that can handle the chemicals contained within it. Some cities and countries have started developing technologies to manage thermal paper waste more effectively, although this is still in development.
Carbon Project and Offsets Advisory Services help businesses manage their carbon footprint effectively. By supporting carbon offset projects, companies can contribute to reforestation and renewable energy development initiatives.
These efforts help counteract emissions from thermal paper production and usage. Implementing a carbon offset strategy enhances corporate sustainability and regulatory compliance.
Taking action today ensures a greener future for businesses and the planet. Please consult with our expert for tailored solutions.
Author: Rahmi, Editor; Sabilla
Reference:
Free Barcode. Environmental concerns of thermal paper. https://free-barcode.com/barcode/barcode-printer/environmental-concerns-thermal-paper.asp. Diakses pada January 19, 2025.
Ingenico. Thermal paper environmental impact and sustainability initiatives. Retrieved January 19, 2025, from https://ingenico.com/es/node/1560. Diakses pada January 19, 2025.
Toxic Impressions. BPA in thermal paper. https://www.toxicimpressions.com/bpa-in-thermal-paper. Diakses pada January 19, 2025.