• Newly developed paper saves wood, water, and electricity while reducing CO2 emissions
  • Deutsche Post is the first postal service provider to plan a complete transition to recycled paper for its gummed stamps
  • 95-cent "Flower Letter" stamp of the standard series represents another contribution to Group-wide sustainability strategy.

In a move that blends environmental responsibility with philatelic tradition, Deutsche Post has introduced a new postage stamp under its "World of Letters" (Welt der Briefe) series. Aptly named the “Flower Letter” (Blumenbrief), this latest release marks a significant milestone: it is the first stamp in the company’s history to be printed on 100% recycled paper.

A Sustainable Innovation in Stamp Production

The innovative stamp is the result of a collaboration between Deutsche Post and British paper manufacturer Tullis Russell. By using recycled materials, the production of the stamp conserves vital resources such as wood, water, and electricity, while also significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The gummed version alone required 12.8 metric tons of recycled paper, demonstrating Deutsche Post’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

This green leap is also symbolically reflected in the stamp’s design. Instead of the traditional euro symbol, a small green leaf appears next to the year — a visual cue for its sustainable origins.

Details and Distribution

Priced at 95 cents, the “Flower Letter” stamp can be used for sending standard letters or postcards within Germany. A total of 82.5 million stamps will be made available in sheets and gummed rolls. Postal customers can purchase the stamp starting April 3, both online and at Deutsche Post outlets.

For added convenience, a self-adhesive version of the stamp will also be available. However, due to current technical limitations, this variant will continue to be printed on conventional paper. Still, the total print run of the “Flower Letter” stamp — including both versions — is expected to reach around 680 million, making it a widespread replacement for the outgoing “Balloon Post” (Ballonpost) design.

The floral motif was designed by renowned stamp artist Bettina Walter, further adding a touch of elegance to this sustainability-driven initiative.

A Vision for the Future

This eco-conscious release is more than just a one-off gesture. Deutsche Post has laid out plans to transition all gummed stamps in its standard and special edition series to recycled paper by 2026. While standard series stamps are produced in unlimited quantities, the German Federal Ministry of Finance also issues limited-edition special stamps each month to commemorate significant events — and these too will follow the recycled route.

By becoming the first postal service provider to commit to using recycled paper exclusively for its gummed stamps, Deutsche Post is establishing itself as a trailblazer in sustainable logistics. The organization is a proud member of the Pro Recycling Paper initiative and continues to push for reductions in raw material consumption, CO2 emissions, and energy use throughout its stamp production processes.

With the launch of the “Flower Letter” stamp, Deutsche Post isn’t just delivering mail — it’s delivering a message of responsibility and environmental stewardship.