In the paper world, where the industry consumes over 30% of the world’s industrial wood, a green revolution is underway. Releaf Paper, a Ukrainian startup founded by Valentyn Frechka and Alexandre Sobolenko, is changing the game by turning dead leaves into cellulose, the heart of paper.

From her passion for biochemistry, Frechka discovered an innovative solution: using dead leaves, collected from the streets of European cities, instead of cutting down trees. This approach not only reduces deforestation, but also offers an environmentally friendly production cycle. With one ton of cellulose obtained from 2.3 tons of leaves, Releaf demonstrates how excellent results can be achieved with a reduced environmental impact.

Why is this important?

Dead leaves, otherwise destined for combustion, are transformed into pellets and then into special paper fiber. This process not only reduces CO2 emissions by 78% compared to traditional methods, but uses 15 times less water. In addition, leaf-based paper degrades in the soil in just 30 days, compared to 270 days for conventional paper.

An Example of Innovation and Sustainability

Releaf Paper is not only environmentally friendly, but also efficient and versatile. The paper produced is durable and suitable for various uses, from envelopes and bags to cardboard packaging. With approximately three million bags produced per month and prestigious clients such as L'Oréal and Google, the company is ready to make the leap.

Next July, they will open their first commercial plant near Paris, with a capacity to process 5,000 tons of leaves per year, supported in part by the European Union.

Looking to the Future

Based at Station F in Paris and a finalist for the European Patent Office’s 2024 Young Inventor Award, Frechka and her team are well on their way to taking their innovation global. Releaf Paper is a shining example of how creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand, offering real hope for a greener future.

Stay tuned: the future of paper is here, and it promises to be greener than ever!