Dubai: The first copies of the Quran printed on stone paper, featured at the Parax Paper stall, was the centre of attraction on the second day of Paperworld Middle East at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The revolutionary and environmentally friendly stone paper is set to rewrite the way the world sees paper, being fully recyclable, waterproof, tear and stain resistant and totally wood-free.
Stone paper — a combination of 80 per cent limestone (calcium carbonate) powder and a small amount of a non-toxic, photodegradable resin (PE) — is produced using only half the energy needed to make conventional paper and produces half the carbon dioxide.
The paper can be used in a variety of ways ranging from being used to print fine manuscripts and books, including religious texts, gifts, bags etc. The paper is both oil- and bacteria-resistant and hence extremely durable.
“Stone paper is the eco-friendly alternative to conventional paper manufacturing which is heavily reliant on the use of wood as a primary ingredient,” said Harvey Djanogly, director of Parax Paper. “With increasing deforestation putting pressure on the unrestricted use of wood from trees in paper manufacture, stone paper will prove to be a popular and environmentally friendly alternative for global paper manufacturers.
“We want to carry the world forward to the new Stone Age. We believe that everyone has an interest in being more eco-friendly. We offer people a way to carry out this aim with no loss of comfort or practicality. Our stone paper can help build the foundation of a world where we don’t have to chop down trees to enhance the quality of our lives,” Djanogly said.
Manufacturers, professionals, and key decision makers from the Middle East paper, office supplies, and stationery market continued to explore new business opportunities, source reliable supplies and search for new products on the second day of the leading trade show serving one of the world’s quickest growing markets.
Featuring as many as 305 exhibitors from 36 countries spanning more than 5,000 sqm at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Paperworld Middle East 2016 is larger than ever before. The show features seven country pavilions spearheaded by Germany, Italy, and Portugal, while a strong 31-member contingent from the UAE is also making its presence felt.
