While PRT recycles 96% of its production waste, it uses a limited amount of recycled paper. In the graphic printing sector, availability is constrained and largely absorbed by the packaging market. From a technical perspective, recycled paper is less robust and less reliable in high-volume printing and enclosing processes, and its darker colour often requires energy-intensive chemical treatments to achieve a white finish. For communications that require high quality and readability, certified virgin fibre paper therefore remains the most effective and, overall, the more sustainable solution. PRT will continue to increase the use of recycled paper where it is technically feasible and genuinely beneficial. Why recycled paper is not always the most sustainable option for PRT In summary, when responsibly managed, paper is a strategic material for the circular economy. Through a certified, transparent and circular supply chain, PRT actively contributes to forest protection, emissions reduction and the valorisation of recycling. Paper plays a central role in the circular economy: it can be recycled up to seven times and is currently the most recycled material in Europe. In Italy, in 2023, the recycling rate of paper and cardboard packaging exceeded 90%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the national collection and recycling system. PRT’s contribution fits into this virtuous cycle. In 2024, the Group sent 96% of its waste to recycling, eliminated several hazardous waste streams and developed products that are easier to recycle, such as the 100% paper auto-forming envelope, designed to simplify recycling and reduce overall environmental impact. Paper is the most recycled material in Europe. Executive Summary 2024 Page 35
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