Stora Enso, a provider of renewable products in packaging, has postponed its decision to convert two paper machines at its Langerbrugge site in Belgium into a high-volume recycled containerboard line.  

The company had been evaluating the potential conversion as part of its strategy to develop the site and leverage its prime location. 

The decision to delay the conversion follows a recent study, which indicated that the current availability of recycled containerboard in Europe is sufficient to meet market demands.  

Stora Enso Product and Sales Recycled Containerboard VP Rebekka Thielemann said: "Our study on the opportunity to deliver more recycled packaging to the market proved positive. However, as the availability of recycled containerboard in Europe currently meets market needs, we decided to postpone the conversion decision, which will be taken in due time.  

"While we remain agile and responsive to market trends, our dedication to our paper customers is unwavering.  

“We are fully committed to continuing to provide the high-quality products and service excellence that our clients have come to expect from us for the foreseeable future, solidifying Langerbrugge's legacy as a cornerstone of paper production." 

The Langerbrugge site, established in 1932 and strategically situated in Ghent, processes approximately 540,000 tons of recycled paper annually.  

This material is used in various consumer packaging, including paper cups collected through circularity initiatives such as The Cup Collective. 

The site produces recycled paper for various customer requirements, including newsprint and super calendared papers. 

The site is also Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified. 

Last month, Stora Enso outlined its commitment to sustainability through a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering environmental responsibility.