Environmentally friendly paper bags and boxes made out of recycled paper (DE-UZ 217b)

The use of recovered paper in the production of packaging paper contributes to the preservation of resources, especially ecosystems such as forests, and thus helps to protect species and the climate. Paper bags and boxes made out of recycled paper certified with the Blue Angel are a more environmentally friendly alternative to products made out of virgin fibres. The German Environment Agency generally recommends that single-use bags and boxes are replaced with multi-use bags and boxes in accordance with the first step of the waste hierarchy – the prevention of waste. However, if these products are not available, the single-use bags and boxes should be as environmentally friendly as possible. Paper bags and boxes with the Blue Angel meet the highest standards with respect to their recyclability. The products may only use adhesives and printing inks that can be removed during the recycling process. The printing inks must also be free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and it is not permitted to use adhesives containing phthalates in the products. Bags for organic waste must pass a practical composting test.

Only recycled paper certified according to DE-UZ 14a and DE-UZ 217a may be used in the production of the paper bags and boxes.