Corrugated packaging company Smurfit Kappa has released its 2012 Sustainable Development Report, which details the continuing progress in its sustainable business initiatives.
The report highlights that February 2013 saw the completion of a three year FSC and/or PEFC certification program for European converting operations.
Completion of the program also led to over 90% of all group converting operations being certified thereby achieving first long term commitment of the group on sustainability two years ahead of schedule.
All Mexican operations of the company received Chain of Custody certifications under FSC.
During the year, Smurfit Kappa reduced its year-on-year absolute fossil CO2 emissions by 1.8%. Its global paper and board mill system reduced fossil CO2 emissions by 3.1% per ton of paper and board produced.
The year-on-year absolute COD discharges were cut down by 1.7%, while the global paper and board mill system minimized the discharges by 4.7% per ton of paper and board produced.
Smurfit Kappa group chief executive officer Gary McGann said the report as well as the early achievement of one of its long-term sustainable development goals further demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
"In 2013, we will continue the drive to demonstrate to all our stakeholders that our sustainability objectives are achievable, beneficial to our business and economically viable," McGann said.
The group completed significant CO2 emissions reducing investment projects in its paper mills in Navarra, Spain, in Mexico City, and in Cali and Barranquilla, Colombia.
Besides, investments in water treatment facilities were completed in Smurfit Kappa's paper mill in Bernal, Argentina and in Ania, Italy.
