Recent analysis shows that the prices of various grades of waste paper are either rising or remaining stable. This price increase could signal a turning point; however, excessively high prices could have a detrimental effect on the circular economy. For many recycling facilities, expensive waste paper could prove to be a costly input. It is worth noting, however, that the price of virgin pulp is also quite high—exceeding that of recovered paper. Yet, within the recycling sector, the impact of rising prices on profitability is complex and multifaceted.
By the end of 2026, price increases have been observed across several categories. Notably, the price of OCC (Old Corrugated Containers) waste paper has risen significantly. OCC is a highly sought-after grade due to its many advantageous properties. It is purchased by numerous recycling facilities because it is easy to process and yields a high volume of material for the secondary raw materials market. Recycled OCC is in high demand; many factories use it to manufacture cardboard packaging—a product that has recently seen increased demand as the industry moves away from plastic packaging, given that plastic waste poses a greater threat to the environment than used paper.
