AF&PA Highlights Value of Paper and Wood Products Industry to Illinois During State’s AnnualBusiness Day

May 2, 2019

Representatives of the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) partnered with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association to underscore the value of the paper and wood products manufacturing industry to the state’s economy during Illinois Business Day – #ILBizDay2019. In meetings with legislators at the state capital in Springfield, AF&PA advocated for public policies that underscore the paper and wood products sector value and strengthen its ability to grow the economy and create jobs. Members of other manufacturing sectors did the same for their individual industries.

 

AF&PA President & CEO Donna Harman said, "Illinois’ paper and wood products sector has a vibrant story to share as our companies apply sustainable manufacturing practices to preserve and protect the environment and produce products that make everyday life easier. We hope state legislators consider these compelling details when drafting legislation: nearly 28,000 workers employed at 256 facilities providing a total payroll of more than $1.8 billion in 2018 in the state of Illinois. Public policy that protects Illinois jobs and safeguards the future of paper products, such as carryout bags, as a renewable resource will protect jobs and go a long way toward supporting our industry’s ability to thrive for generations to come."

 

Illinois Manufacturers’ Association President & CEO Mark Denzler said, "Illinois manufacturing is the leading economic sector in our state, employing 590,000 women and men and contributing the single largest share of the Gross State Product. Innovative and dynamic manufacturers make the world a better place to live every single day by making life-saving products, feeding the world, powering our homes and businesses, transporting people and products around the globe and providing for our nation’s defense. We’re especially proud of our forest products sector that contributes pulp, paper, packaging, and wood products for customers around the world. They are good stewards of our environment and Illinois today has 60 percent more acres of timber today than existed in the 1920s."