Quebec could reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 45 percent by promoting recycled content

The 2024 Circularity Gap Report was published this week by Recyc-Québec and Circle Economy, and the report urges businesses and consumers to embrace the circular economy for the sake of the environment. 

Cascades Inc., a packaging and hygiene products producer, took the opportunity to highlight its business model, which has been based around the circular economy from the very beginning.

"Founded in 1964 by the Lemaire brothers on the simple idea of creating something new out of something old, Cascades was one of the first companies to make the circular economy its business model, using recycled materials to manufacture its products," says Hugues Simon, president and CEO of Cascades. "Even today, our forest is urban: it is in the recycling bins of citizens, businesses, and institutions. In fact, over 82 percent of the material we use to make our products is recycled. Every year, we reduce the pressure on natural resources by diverting 1.8 million metric tons of recyclable fibers from landfills. By buying local and promoting recycled products, citizens and businesses can make a difference," emphasized Simon.

Recycling is good for business as well as the environment

The report published by Recyc-Québec and Circle Economy shows that the current economic model goes beyond the limits deemed safe for the planet. It also establishes that by moving toward a circular economy, and in particular by promoting the use of recycled content, Québec could reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 45 percent.

"By choosing to favour recycled content, Cascades is not only supporting the circular economy, but also helping to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions," said Hugo D'Amours, vice president of communications, public affairs, and sustainable development. "In 2023, we generated 41 percent fewer emissions than the industry average, a fact we are very proud of. We are committed to further reducing our environmental footprint while providing our customers with packaging and hygiene products that have the smallest possible footprint."