Natural paper from fallen leaves

Video

Description

Releaf Paper developed its own patented technology of processing fallen leaves info fibers. Using combination of mechanical, thermal and chemical treatment, we not only dispose green wastes, but also ensure source of sustainable raw-materials for paper & packaging industries.

Story

Releaf Paper developed its own patented technology of processing fallen leaves info fibers. Using combination of mechanical, thermal and chemical treatment, we not only dispose green wastes, but also ensure source of sustainable raw-materials for paper & packaging industries.

Rethinking leaves
Leaves in cities are biological waste that needs to be disposed of safely. Burning leaves catastrophically disrupts the nitrogen-oxygen ratio, as the air is polluted with carbon monoxide and other harmful gases that harm nature, animals and, of course, people.
At the same time, leaves are a source of pulp, which is used to make paper. For us, this is a valuable and affordable raw material, and entire infrastructures have been created in cities to collect it. Leaves regenerate quickly and are available all year round. And most importantly, the fibres of the leaves have paper-forming properties.
While half of the world is concerned about the global problem of deforestation, Releaf Paper has developed its own unique technology for making paper from green waste fibres.
European cities generate tens of thousands of leaves every year, and municipal services create an entire infrastructure to collect them. The leaves they collect are transferred to our processing centers located in close proximity to the partner city. In this way we receive a huge amount of raw materials for our production.
Leaves are cleaned from foreign objects by washing and drying on industrial equipment. By further granulating and storing the raw material in big bags, we solve the issue of its year-round storage and solve the problem of seasonality.
And finally, we manufacture fiber products using our own unique technology, which involves minimal use of water and chemicals to achieve a superior product.

The company was born in 2021 in Ukraine as a result of the collaboration of a talented scientist and a successful entrepreneur. At the same time, the first launches took place at a test mini-production facility. In 2022, the company opened an office in France and began to set up its own production. Releaf Paper actively uses contract mills in Ukraine and the EU to produce paper and packaging under Releaf’s technology.
Started as a research project by a 16-year-old schoolboy, in 5 years Releaf Paper has grown into an international dynamic startup with offices in Paris and Kyiv and global ambitions.

In 2021 we have been recognised by WWF, in 2022 we have been supported by Google for Startups, in 2023 we received 2,5M euros of support from European Innovative Council. Same year we became finalists of LVMH Innovation Award, Sustainability Award, EBRD Green Voucher. In 2024 our invention became 2nd best in EU According to European Patent Office.

Our first customers are: L'Oreal, LVMH, Samsung, Logitech, Nestle, Weleda, NYX, BNP Paribas.

Link

• https://www.releaf-paper.com

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Judge’s Comments

Cecilia Tham

Co-founder and CEO at Futurity Systems

Regen Prize

This project is really well-constructed and what a thoughtful initiative that addresses two critical challenges: the need for sustainable raw materials and the disposal of bio-waste. The use of fallen leaves as a renewable source for paper and packaging shows the viabliity of circular economy and a true example of sustainable business practices.

The project’s ability to turn a widely available resource, such as fallen leaves, into a high-value product is commendable. While seasonality poses a potential challenge, the team’s strategy for processing and storing leaves to ensure a consistent supply is a practical and effective solution.

It is particularly impressive that such a young entrepreneur has developed a solid business model with partnerships involving major global brands. The approach not only reduces deforestation but also contributes to carbon savings and recyclable end products, showcasing its potential for meaningful environmental and economic impact. For me, this is an inspiring example of innovation meeting sustainability.

Gwyneth Jong

Co-founder of FabCafe Kuala Lumpur

Turning Waste Into Resource Prize

This project strikes a cord for me because I always come across the gardeners who take care of the parks and roads in our local area, producing bag after bag of fallen leaves destined to be thrown away. It is always disturbing for me to see it, because fallen leaves are not trash, and if they are left to decompose , they can be great for nourishing the soil. But, of course, in modern society, fallen leaves can be considered unsightly. This is why I'm particularly excited to see how this abundance of waste can be transformed into a valuable resource. By turning fallen leaves into paper, the initiative not only reduces leaf waste but also provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper production, which often relies on cutting down trees and harmful chemicals. This process highlights the potential of nature-based solutions to support sustainability and reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, it’s a creative and practical application of the circular economy, where organic materials are repurposed, helping to preserve natural resources while promoting a cleaner, more sustainable future.