The demand for pulp and paper is increasing globally and is expected to grow further. This increasing demand for paper has led to excessive deforestation in both developed and developing countries. The restoration of the forest resources is difficult because of the relatively long growing cycle of trees. Moreover, drastic reduction in the supply of wood/bamboo pulp the world over coupled with increasing concerns regarding reduced forest resources have forced many countries to search for alternatives for making paper from “Tree free” pulp. Jute and kenaf are annually renewable resources of biomass, requiring only 120 to 180 days for its growth. These, as a result, have stimulated growing interest among various developed and developing countries toward jute/kenaf as a widely available alternative source of pulp.

Jute/kenaf, containing cellulose like any other raw materials used for paper pulp, has been found to be an excellent raw material for making good quality pulp and paper. The technologies for making pulp and paper from whole jute as well as from jute fibre are successfully developed. Attempts are being made to make it more cost-effective. Once the commercial viability improves further, whole jute/kenaf could become a major source for “Tree free” pulp and paper.

The stem of jute/kenaf consists of two different fibrous components, both of which are suitable for quality papermaking and is similar to softwood fibers. The bark fibers offer strength to the pulp while the shorter core fibers provide appreciable surface characteristics. Furthermore, using jute for pulp and paper has many advantages, like

With the available technologies the “Tree free” paper out of jute/kenaf are expected to replace wood/bamboo paper to a great extent, in the near future.