Question

Give example of an alternative for timber in paper Industry. Why is there a need to find alternatives to timber? (Any four points)

Answer 1

Bagasse is an example of an alternative to timber in the paper Industry. 

1. Environmental Conservation: Timber harvesting can lead to deforestation, which results in loss of biodiversity, habitat destruction, and disruption of ecosystem services. Using agricultural residues as paper pulp reduces the demand for virgin timber, thereby helping to conserve forests.
2. Resource Efficiency: Agricultural residues, which are by-products of food production, provide a sustainable source of fibre for paper production without requiring additional land or resources. This promotes resource efficiency and reduces waste from agricultural activities.
3. Climate Change Mitigation: Forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and climate regulation. By reducing the pressure on forests for timber extraction, using alternative fibres helps mitigate climate change by preserving existing carbon sinks and reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with deforestation and forest degradation.
4. Local Economic Development: Utilizing agricultural residues for paper production can support local economies in agricultural regions by creating additional revenue streams for farmers and reducing waste disposal costs.
5. Regulatory Compliance: In many regions, regulations and certifications promote sustainable forestry practices and reduce illegal logging. Using alternative fibres helps paper manufacturers comply with these regulations and meet sustainability standards.