Conservation of resources in the pulp and paper industry derived from cleaner production approach

► Analyzed cardboard mill has high water consumption and low fiber use efficiency. ► Suggested cleaner production measures provide 50% decrease in water consumption. ► End-of-pipe measures increase fiber and filler recovery for estimated 28%. ► The investment of 865,000 € would bring total savings of ca. 3.0 M € in 9 months. ► We have confirmed that cleaner production pays-off in a cardboard production. This paper analyses the utilization of water and recycled fiber from waste paper for the production in one Serbian cardboard mill. Water and fiber consumption, wastewater generation and its characteristics, as well as sludge recirculation were monitored during production of various paper types, with different grade and weight. The aim was to evaluate production rationality and running stability concerning water and fiber utilization and possibilities for their conservation. Cleaner production measures inside the mill and in the effluent treatment plant were suggested for the improvement of wastewater quality and water conservation. Savings in water and fibers were estimated, with the respect to economic and environmental aspects of proposed cleaner production measures.