How did the printing press increase the demand for paper in Europe?

The invention of the printing press in the 1450s by Johannes Gutenberg triggered an information explosion in Europe, which in turn created a vastly increased demand for paper.12

Before this innovation, books were hand-copied, limiting their availability. The printing press enabled the mass production of books, pamphlets, and news sheets, allowing information to reach audiences far beyond previous limits. Because the printing process required large quantities of paper to produce these materials, existing paper mills—which had been established across Europe during the 14th century—faced significant pressure to keep up with the new consumption levels.32

This surge in demand was so substantial that, throughout the 18th century, paper mills struggled with chronic shortages of their primary raw materials, which were then limited to linen and cotton rags. The industry's inability to meet the printing press's requirements eventually highlighted the urgent need for new, more abundant papermaking materials.2