AF&PA Announces Award-Winning Sustainability Projects

Heinzel Group’s operations are characterized by saving resources, environmental protection, energy efficiency and use of renewable sources of energy. Besides the own power generation for pulp and paper production and the green energy obtained from hydropower, the roofs of Laakirchen Papier AG and Zellstoff Pöls AG are now used for the generation of renewable energy through photovoltaic systems. In cooperation with Heinzel Energy, over 9,000 solar modules are installed on around 15,000 m² of roof area which generate more than 3 GWh of green energy per year. Up to 800 tons of CO2 can be saved with both photovoltaic systems and the electricity produced will supply more than 850 households.

Every October is an exciting time for the industry as we celebrate National Forest Products Week and get to remind the world of the many benefits of choosing paper and paper packaging. At home, school, the workplace and all points in between, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products provide undeniable value to consumers and communities across the country. And the best part of using forest products for everyday use is they are made from a renewable and recyclable resource. In 2015, the industry recovered 66.8 percent of paper and paperboard in the U.S. And we achieve continuously high recovery rates through the voluntary, market-driven recovery system. Compared to other recyclable commodities, the recovery rate of paper and paper-based packaging from municipal solid waste streams is very high. Promoting increased paper recycling is an integral part of our industry’s sustainable practices. Since AF&PA instituted the first paper recovery goal, the industry has worked with partners to promote increased paper recovery in communities, on college campuses, in schools, and businesses. click Read More below for more of the story

International Paper has named its first-ever chief sustainability officer as it prepares to advance its contributions to the circular economy. Sophie Beckham will lead the company's recently announced Vision 2030, which demonstrates its commitment to building a better future for people, the planet and the company. "Customers, investors and employees depend on us to be leaders in environmental stewardship and to strengthen our people and communities; appointing a chief sustainability officer is the next step in our continuing progress," said Mark Sutton, chairman and chief executive officer. "Sophie is uniquely qualified to lead the pursuit of our Vision 2030 goals and drive sustainability efforts that create value for all of our stakeholders."