The paper would be totally combustible, so all residue after recycling could be burned, easing pressure on landfill sites.

VTT Process Group manager Pia Qvintus-Leino said some current paper grades contained up to 40-50% in mineral fillers, so the amount of ash formed in combustion of waste paper was very high and its disposal was a problem.

The aim of the project is to modify starch-based materials so that they are water-soluble and the particle size is optimal for best light scattering purposes.

Using natural-based fillers could also solve problems from the disposal of inorganic deinking sludge.