Portugal’s paper and board industry stands as a prime example of the country’s innovation, scientific excellence, and commitment to sustainability. Over the decades, this sector has not only contributed significantly to Portugal’s economy but also redefined the global perception of paper as a functional, versatile material. Despite its vital role, the industry often operates in the shadow of more visible sectors, quietly driving technological and economic progress.

Innovation Rooted in Tradition

Portugal's journey of innovation in the paper industry began with groundbreaking projects that transformed paper into more than just a medium for writing. In 2008, the development of Paper-e, a functional material capable of processing information, set a benchmark for the integration of technology into traditional materials. With applications in electronic labels, medical devices, and sustainable batteries, Paper-e highlighted Portugal's ability to merge accessibility, functionality, and sustainability in one product.

Subsequent innovations, such as soap-integrated cleaning papers and conductive inks for electronic circuits, demonstrated the industry's adaptability. By enabling electronic circuits to be printed on paper, researchers democratized lightweight electronics, paving the way for applications in areas like smart sensors and drones. These breakthroughs illustrate the sector's commitment to practical, sustainable solutions for modern challenges.

Sustainability as a Core Value

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Portugal’s paper and board industry. Research institutes such as RAIZ—the Forest and Paper Research Institute—drive the sector’s ecological and technological advancements. By exploring the potential of by-products like lignin for creating nanocapsules for medicines, projects such as BIO-LIGNE not only highlight the versatility of the industry but also promote cross-sectoral synergies, particularly with the biomedical field.

Other research focuses on reducing the environmental impact of production processes. For instance, the University of Coimbra's work on ligninolytic fungi exemplifies efforts to lower energy consumption and chemical usage, reinforcing the industry's commitment to eco-friendly practices.

A Hidden Economic Powerhouse

Despite its relatively low profile, the paper and board sector contributes over 5% of Portugal’s GDP and accounts for around 10% of national exports. Beyond these impressive economic figures, the sector plays a vital role in maintaining regional balance by creating jobs and wealth in disadvantaged rural areas. It fosters community stability and drives the bioeconomy, making it indispensable to Portugal's territorial cohesion.

Shaping the Future

The Portuguese paper and board industry is a testament to the country’s ability to lead in innovation while adhering to sustainable practices. By investing in technology and research, the sector continues to evolve, proving that even traditional industries can thrive in a modern, green economy. This hidden powerhouse not only reflects Portugal’s commitment to scientific and economic excellence but also underlines its role in building a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes