Graphic Packaging International, Atlanta, Ga., USA, was recognized with a North America Award for Sustainability at the Kellogg Company's Supplier Recognition Event held in June 2016 in Battle Creek, Mich. This inaugural award recognizes suppliers that have demonstrated excellence in corporate responsibility.

Graphic Packaging received the award for its key understanding and support of a Kellogg Company core objective, which is to provide consumers with more sustainable products and easily recyclable product packaging. Recyclable paperboard packaging provides the content and graphics space the Kellogg's branding team needs in its communication of important sustainability stories to the consumer.

Graphic Packaging is working with multiple teams at Kellogg to offer sustainable paperboard packaging solutions that will resonate with consumers yet protect the product inside. Recycled paperboard is made from paper fibers reclaimed during the recycling process. Virgin paperboard is made from fibers sustainably and ethically harvested from pine trees, which are re-planted and are a renewable natural resource. Both recycled and virgin paperboards are used in the packaging solutions that Graphic Packaging provides to customers. Paperboard is the sole material used to manufacture folding cartons like the ones used by Kellogg for Kashi products and the cartons Graphic Packaging produces for other customers from a range of industries.

Andy Johnson, VP, Government Affairs and Sustainability at Graphic Packaging International said that "Graphic Packaging International is proud of the progress we have made to become internationally recognized as a company that not only provides sustainable paperboard packaging solutions, but also does what we believe is the right thing to do for the planet and for people. The recognition from Kellogg validates that our program aligns with its expectations and speaks to the larger consciousness of the consumer, who expects recyclable packaging solutions from the brands they enjoy." 

Graphic Packaging demonstrates community commitment through three guiding pillars: Preserving the Environment, Putting Food on the Table, and Investing in Education. These pillars drive the company to become better every day. 

More information about Graphic Packaging International and its commitment to sustainability is available online. 

In the photo below are (l-r) Dan Engelgard (GPI), Mike Hockin (GPI), Julie Burton (GPI), Rick Husted (Kellogg), Brian Gwin (Kellogg), Pete Lokar (GPI), and Mike Smith (GPI).