Sustainable Development Reshapes North American Pulp and Paper Industry
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The North American pulp and paper industry is undergoing a significant transformation as it embraces sustainable development practices to address environmental concerns and meet evolving market demands. This sector, a cornerstone of manufacturing, produces essential items ranging from packaging to hygiene products, but faces mounting pressure to reduce its ecological footprint.
Sustainability has become a central focus for industry leaders, with companies adopting eco-friendly practices across their operations. About 80% of U.S. paper mills now incorporate recycled paper fibers in their products, contributing to the creation of renewable goods such as packaging and office paper. This shift towards a circular economy is evident as firms strive to minimize waste and enhance resource efficiency.
Technological innovation is playing a crucial role in this transition. The adoption of advanced automation, digitization, and smart manufacturing technologies is helping companies optimize production processes, improve operational efficiency, and reduce energy consumption. Moreover, the industry is exploring bio-based materials to develop new, sustainable product lines, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Despite these advancements, the industry continues to face significant challenges. These include the need for sustainable wood sourcing, the transition to renewable energy, and effective waste management.
In this feature, we will explore the efforts of North American pulp and paper manufacturers in achieving their sustainability goals.
Our focus begins with a closer look at Kruger KP Inc.
Kruger Products Inc. (KP) has detailed its sustainability efforts in the 2023 Sustainability Report, which outlines the company’s performance across environmental, social, and economic areas. The report primarily covers data from KP’s operations in Canada and the U.S., with a focus on initiatives such as the cogeneration system at the Sherbrooke, QC plant, which has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 15,000 MT annually.
As part of its "Reimagine 2030" strategy, KP emphasizes transparency and accountability in areas like climate change, water conservation, and sustainable sourcing. While the company has made progress in energy efficiency and fiber sourcing, it has encountered challenges in reducing virgin plastic use, with an 8.5% increase reported from 2020 to 2023. KP is continuing its efforts to meet its 2030 sustainability targets, including a 50% reduction in virgin plastic.
The company’s Board of Directors oversees its sustainability strategy, including the integration of climate risks into the enterprise risk management system, to ensure long-term resilience and compliance with regulatory standards. The Board also evaluates the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives in contributing to growth, risk management, and the company’s overall reputation.
Looking ahead, KP seeks to meet or exceed its Reimagine 2030 targets and maintain its position as a recognized leader in sustainability within the industry.
