Paper buyers are highly knowledgeable about sourcing, production and transport of paper, because they often have clear goals to reduce the climate impact. Let's look at sustainable forestry and why it matters for the choice of paper.
If you work in paper purchasing, you can take pride in the fact that the paper industry displays better sustainability performance than many other industries. The paper industry is a highly regulated sector, and this in itself leads to better performance in general compared to less regulated sectors, according to sustainability rating platform Ecovadis. They also underline that industries where the purchasing segment look at environmental impact from all levels across the value chain perform much better.
For relevant reporting on carbon/GHG emissions, you need to look not only at your own emissions, but also at emissions generated by your supply base, Ecovadis says. This will help your company create effective GHG reduction actions and improve your own sustainability performance.
To reduce carbon footprint in the paper industry, a circular approach and the responsible use of resources is an absolute must. You can read more about how we work with this at Holmen, in our book "Future-smart forests – our contribution to sustainable development".
Forests have a positive impact
Sustainably managed forests have a positive climate impact, but the forest is not sustainably managed unless sustainable growth is ensured. After harvesting we secure the regeneration by working for seeds and seedlings to survive and grow well. At Holmen's own nurseries a total of twelve greenhouses are used for cultivating over 40 million seedlings yearly.
Read more on page 68.
Biodiversity is fundamental
When biodiversity is on the agenda, traceability has to be ensured. Supply chain managers make clear demands for the raw material to come from responsible, sustainable forestry. It also has to be processed in sustainable and effective ways with low environmental impact. Learn more about this from experts representing different fields throughout the book.
Read more on page 31.
Managed forests can accomplish more
Most carbon is bound in the trees when their annual growth is at its peak, normally at the age of 20-60 years. This means that active forestry creates greater climate benefit – as long as it is well taken care of and its resources are handled in responsible ways. But no one can say what needs the forests will fulfil in society in 50, 100 or 150 years' time. Therefore Holmen's strategy is to create resilient and varied forests.
Read more on page 118.
The book "Future-smart forests" is made to show how we work with forestry – in detail and with full transparency. From the contents:
Here are some recommendations if you want more detailed information about how sustainability is core to us: