Sustainable Forestry

AF&PA Urges New York Governor Hochul to Veto TREES Act

SManger — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:11:43 +0000

AF&PA Urges New York Governor Hochul to Veto TREES Act

SManger Thu, 12/19/2024 - 09:11

WASHINGTON – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock released the following statement in response to New York’s Tropical Rainforest Economic & Environmental Sustainability (TREES) Act (AB 9711):

"AF&PA asks Governor Hochul to once again veto New York’s TREES Act which continues to ignore the fact that the U.S. paper and wood products industry champions sustainable forestry and does not contribute to deforestation.

"Governor Hochul vetoed similar legislation last year, finding that the ‘bill's extensive certification requirements would also impose significant burdens on businesses – particularly small businesses – that want to do business with the State.’

"The proposal would have significant effects for our industry’s circular supply chain and continues to raise serious definitional concerns and questions on the trade restrictive approach to forest management. Many of the same concerns that led the European Union to recently delay the onerous European Union Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR) are also present in this legislation, including issues surrounding certification, traceability, and forest classification requirements.

"We urge Governor Kathy Hochul to veto New York’s TREES Act as it will severely harm the forest products industry which employs more than 26,000 New Yorkers.”

Press Release

Marketplace Sustainability

Sustainable Forestry

What is Biodiversity?

SManger — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 15:30:01 +0000

What is Biodiversity?

SManger Wed, 11/20/2024 - 10:30

Registered Foresters from Across the U.S. Explain the Importance of Biodiversity

Key Takeaways

This is part 3 of our forest management series. Explore part 1, “What is Sustainable Forestry” and part 2, “What Are Forest Management Practices?” Sustainable forestry and forest management practices work together to maintain biodiversity.

What is Biodiversity?

Biodiversity in a forest is more than how many different species of animals live there. It also includes the soil, bugs, trees, flowers, fish, fungi like mushrooms and more.

Different species need different conditions to survive such as:

Temperature
Shelter
Food and water sources

The different structures of managed forests offer diverse habitats for wildlife and plant species.

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson, Timber and Forestry Manager, Packaging Corporation of America in Tennessee

"Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms within an ecosystem, including the diversity of species, genetic diversity within species, and diversity of ecosystems themselves.

It encompasses the wide range of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms that inhabit Earth, as well as the interactions between them and their environments.”

Cierra L.S. Ward, Forestry Manager, Resource Management Services in North Carolina

"Biodiversity means having multiple species of healthy plants and animals present across the landscape.”

What’s an Example of Biodiversity in a Forest?

Managed forests are often in different stages of the tree life cycle. The differences can include:

Tree age
Tree height
Tree species

These differences contribute to biodiversity. This means differences in the animals, plants and stand structure. The location of a forest also affects biodiversity. Just like growing a garden in the Pacific Northwest is different than growing a garden in the Southeast U.S.

The Foresters Take:

Cierra L.S. Ward

"For example, in the south, a young managed forest where the pine trees have not yet grown very tall provides the perfect environment for blackberries, goldenrod, and thistles to thrive. Those plants support multiple songbirds, pollinators, wild turkey, black bear, and deer.

The rotting woody vegetation from the previous forest stand provides habitat for reptiles and amphibians, as well as decomposers like worms, ants, and mushrooms.

In an older managed forest, where the pine trees are very tall and the forest floor is shaded, many grasses grow. This provides excellent forage for deer and quail as well as nesting habitat for turkeys and hunting opportunities for animals such as raccoons, possums, and foxes.”

Why is Biodiversity Important?

Biodiversity is crucial for a healthy ecosystem. Each species has a job they perform to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. Different species work together to maintain the conditions necessary for their collective survival.

Let’s take pollinators for example. Flowering plants and wildflowers are a food source for many pollinator species, like bees and birds.

These animals help transfer pollen across the forest every time they eat. This helps the plants reproduce and maintains a healthy ecosystem.

The plants also attract other insects that are a food source for birds and other animals. All of this helps with reforestation and biodiversity.

Maintaining biodiversity ensures forests can provide us with our essential products and provide species with their vital resources.

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson

"Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem stability, resilience, and functionality, as it supports ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling, pollination, pest control, and climate regulation. Protecting biodiversity is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems and ensuring the well-being of both human societies and the planet.”

How Does Forest Management Help Maintain Biodiversity?

Forest management plays a large role in maintaining biodiversity. Foresters help maintain and create habitats for wildlife and plant species. They do this through using responsible forest management practices.

Some practices that help maintain biodiversity include:

Reforestation and replanting
Wildlife habitat creation and enhancement
Managing for water quality
Selective harvest
Disease and pest management
Fertilizing the soil
Controlled burns, also called a prescribed fire
Monitoring and research

The Foresters Take:

Carolyn Mulligan, District Manager, American Forest Management in Virginia

"Sustainable forest management means we manage our forests in a way to ensure those forests can provide the planet with life essential things like clean air and water, beautiful landscapes, diversity of species and the forest products that enhance our lives and provide us comfort.”

Cierra L.S. Ward

"Managed forests benefit wildlife in many ways. When managing forests, we often create openings that edge-loving species utilize to hunt for food or prey or use as travel corridors... We often leave mast-producing trees and shrubs, like oaks and blackberries, that provide excellent food for wildlife.”

Neal Carson

"Yes, managed forests can benefit wildlife in several ways. These may include habitat diversification, food and shelter enhancement, increased conservation efforts, and by allowing better monitoring and research.”

Interested in Learning More About Sustainable Forestry?

Want to learn more about sustainable forest management in the U.S.? You can:

Learn about International Paper’s work to enhance bird habitats in working forests.
Take a virtual forest tour to see how managed forests operate with Georgia-Pacific.
Contact your state’s forestry association or Department of Forestry.
Learn about the Sustainable Forestry and Land Retention Project

Update in Brief

Sustainable Forestry

Marketplace Sustainability

Industry Voices

National Forest Products Week Highlights Industry's Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

CCozort — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 22:19:13 +0000

National Forest Products Week Highlights Industry's Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

CCozort Sun, 10/20/2024 - 18:19

The 64th Annual Event Celebrates the Paper and Wood Products Industry

WASHINGTON – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) is celebrating the 64th annual National Forest Products Week.

Throughout the week, AF&PA will highlight innovations in the paper and wood products industry that are driving our sustainability goals.

Paper and wood products are an essential part of daily life. Our industry is committed to delivering essential, sustainable products made from renewable and recyclable resources.

“During National Forest Products Week, we celebrate and honor those who make the forest products industry possible,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock. "As one of the largest manufacturing industries in America, we are guided by sustainability principles that help ensure the health of forests for decades to come.”

Our members continue to make strides towards sustainability goals and are working on outstanding innovations. Learn more about:

In 2011, AF&PA became one of the first manufacturing sectors to set measurable sustainability goals—and we’re not stopping there. After exceeding many of our Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 goals, we launched our second generation of goals and are now focused on our 2030 initiative.

Importantly, AF&PA is proud to collaborate with the congressional Paper and Packaging Caucus to achieve a sustainable future.

“AF&PA is grateful for the support of the Paper and Packaging Caucus, including co-chairs Congressman Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA), Senator John Boozman (R-AR), and Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). Your leadership and encouragement help assist millions of Americans who depend on our industry.”

Follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram, and share our stories during National Forest Products Week using the hashtag #ForestProductsWeek.

What Are Forest Management Practices?

SManger — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:37:05 +0000

What Are Forest Management Practices?

SManger Tue, 10/08/2024 - 10:37

Registered Foresters from Across the U.S. Explain Sustainable Forest Management

Key Takeaways

This is part 2 of our forest management series. Explore part 1, “What is Sustainable Forestry” and part 3, "What is Biodiversity?" Foresters work closely with landowners to help manage their forests. Management practices help maintain a forest’s long-term health and growth.

Sustainable forestry means caring for and managing forests to ensure we have them now and for generations to come.

Foresters work closely with landowners to help manage their land for the long term. They use science, the best available technology and information to develop management plans.

Why is Forest Management Important?

Sustainable forest management helps maintain the health, biodiversity, productivity and longevity of a forest.

When developing management plans, foresters pay close attention to:

Tree health
Water quality
Wildlife habitats
Preventing wildfires
Managing pests and disease

Foresters also work with landowners to identify and protect cultural and historic resources. These include things like historic artifacts or buildings and burial sites.

Sustainable forest management is important because it helps ensure there is balance in the ecosystem.

Download Foresters Help Manage Graphic

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson, Timber and Forestry Manager, Packaging Corporation of America in Tennessee

"Sustainable forestry aims to maintain the long-term health and productivity of forests without depleting their resources."

Carolyn Mulligan, District Manager, American Forest Management in Virginia

"Sustainable forest management means we manage our forests in a way to ensure those forests can provide the planet with life’s essential things. Things like clean air and water, beautiful landscapes and diversity of species. Also the forest products that enhance our lives and provide us comfort."

Cierra L.S. Ward, Forestry Manager, Resource Management Services in North Carolina

"Sustainable forestry ensures that the cycle keeps happening again and again while protecting water quality, wildlife habitat, and the beauty of the forest."

What Are Examples of Sustainable Forest Management Practices?

Download 1 Billion Trees Planted Graphic

Foresters and scientists use a variety of tactics to manage a forest. These practices help maintain a forest’s health and growth. They’re also one of the best ways to ensure the longevity of a forest.

Our expert foresters said forest management practices include:

Reforestation and replanting
Wildlife habitat creation and enhancement
Managing for water quality
Selective harvest
Thinning
Disease and pest management
Fertilizing the soil
Controlled burns, also called a prescribed fire

These practices have been used and refined over time to help maintain forest ecosystems.

On managed forests, trees are replanted to continue the cycle of growing. More than 1 billion seedlings are planted every year in the U.S. The majority of those are planted on managed forests.

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson

"It includes measures like selective harvesting, where only mature trees are removed, leaving younger trees to grow and replenish the forest. Also reforestation efforts to replant trees in areas that have been harvested."

John F. McAlpine, President, Kingwood Forestry Services in Arkansas

"We are mimicking what mother nature does."

Carolyn Mulligan

"When replanting a site, foresters look at the characteristics of the land and soil. This is to determine the proper tree species, planting method and spacing to assure the greatest successes for survival and growth. Buffers are left along waterways to protect water quality."

Cierra L.S. Ward

"Sustainable forestry limits the number of acres that can be harvested. It also establishes guidelines and best practices for how to build forest roads, cross creeks, apply fertilizers and chemicals, and enhance wildlife habitat."

Why is it Okay to Remove Trees From a Forest?

Foresters manage forests like you might manage a garden. Like weeding a garden, foresters do selective cuts or “thinnings” that remove dead, diseased, or otherwise troubled trees.

They also pull out underbrush that could catch fire to help prevent forest fires. This gives healthier trees the space and resources they need to thrive.

There are many reasons why trees are removed from forests, including:

There’s not enough room for all the trees to grow.
To provide a habitat for wildlife.
To prevent forest fires.
When more light needs to reach the forest floor.
The trees are sick. They can get infected with diseases and insects, which can spread.
A forester prescribed it for the long-term planning and health of a forest.

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson

"Tree removal requires careful consideration to ensure that it is done sustainably and with minimal impact to the forest ecosystem."

John F. McAlpine

"Forest management reduces overstocking and improves tree health to be more resilient."

Carolyn Mulligan

"Sometimes trees grow too densely and compete with each other for water, light and nutrients. In cases like this, it is best to remove some of them."

Cierra L.S. Ward

"We remove trees at a thinning to open up the canopy, allowing more space, sunlight, water, and nutrients to be concentrated to the best trees."

Interested in Learning More About Sustainable Forestry?

Want to learn more about sustainable forest management in the U.S.? You can:

Contact your state’s forestry association or Department of Forestry.
Learn about the Sustainable Forestry and Land Retention Project
Learn about International Paper’s work to enhance bird habitats in working forests.

Update in Brief

Sustainable Forestry

Marketplace Sustainability

Industry Voices

AF&PA Commends EU Decision to Extend Deforestation Regulation Deadline to December 2025

SManger — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:35:26 +0000

AF&PA Commends EU Decision to Extend Deforestation Regulation Deadline to December 2025

SManger Wed, 10/02/2024 - 13:35

WASHINGTON – The American Forest & Paper Association President and CEO Heidi Brock released the following statement regarding the European Union’s Commission decision to extend the EU Deforestation Regulation implementation deadline to December 2025.

“We appreciate the EU Commission for being responsive to U.S. government officials and the numerous partners across the globe who have voiced concerns about the complex requirements and significant technical barriers of EUDR. Today’s additional guidance and extension of the implementation deadline provides industries like ours with more time to engage on workable solutions that avoid trade disruptions.

“AF&PA fully supports the EUDR goal of deforestation-free supply chains. The U.S. pulp and paper industry is not linked to global deforestation and forest degradation."

"We believe in balanced and achievable regulations, and are a strong proponent of international efforts to address deforestation and forest degradation. As such we welcome the Commission's commitment to a stronger cooperation framework."

"We look forward to the opportunity for continued dialogue with EU regulators and other stakeholders to refine and improve the EUDR’s overall effectiveness.”

Press Release

Marketplace Sustainability

Sustainable Forestry

What is Sustainable Forestry?

SManger — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:18:07 +0000

What is Sustainable Forestry?

SManger Thu, 09/19/2024 - 13:18

Registered Foresters from Across the U.S. Explain Sustainable Forest Management

Key Takeaways

Sustainable forestry means caring for and managing forests so we have them now and in the future. Foresters work closely with landowners to manage their land and replant trees. This is the first blog in our forest management series. View part 2, "What are Forest Management Practices?" and part 3, "What is Biodiversity?"

In this blog series, we interviewed registered foresters about sustainable forestry practices.

You’ll hear from these registered foresters:

Neal Carson, Timber and Forestry Manager, Packaging Corporation of America in Tennessee
John F. McAlpine, President, Kingwood Forestry Services in Arkansas
Carolyn Mulligan, District Manager, American Forest Management in Virginia
Cierra L.S. Ward, Forestry Manager, Resource Management Services in North Carolina

In this series, we’ll explore:

The meaning of sustainable forestry
Sustainable forest management techniques and best practices
The connection between forest management and biodiversity

What is Sustainable Forestry?

Sustainability means something is sustained or managed over time so the resource isn’t depleted.

When applied to forests, sustainable forestry means caring for and managing forests so we have them now and in the future.

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson

"Sustainable forestry involves the management of today’s forests to meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of the future."

John F. McAlpine

"Sustainable forestry ensures that the forest is healthy for future generations. And it provides all the other benefits from the forest such as clean water, clean air, and habitat for all."

Cierra L.S. Ward

"Sustainable forestry means trees today, trees tomorrow, trees forever."

What is a Managed Forest?

In the U.S., many work together to carefully manage forests so they are healthy for years to come. This includes landowners, foresters, engineers and scientists. These forests are managed or working forests.

When it comes to managed forests, landowners and foresters think long term. They work together to plant and replant generations of trees and healthy forests.

The Foresters Take:

Neal Carson

"All activities within the managed forest are done to help maintain the health and productivity of the managed forest ecosystem."

Carolyn Mulligan

"A well-managed forest is a healthy forest. It’s a forest that has benefitted from the expertise of people skilled in making good management decisions based on the goals of the landowner."

Cierra L.S. Ward

"Foresters make plans to replant areas that are harvested well ahead of the first tree being cut down."

Interested in Learning More About Sustainable Forestry?

Want to learn more about sustainable forest management in the U.S.? You can:

Take a virtual forest tour to see how managed forests operate with Georgia-Pacific.
Learn about International Paper’s work to enhance bird habitats in working forests.
Watch “Diary of a Working Forest: Replanting” by Washington’s Working Forests.
Learn about your state’s Forest Action Plan.
Contact your state’s forestry association or Department of Forestry.

Update in Brief

Marketplace Sustainability

Industry Voices

Sustainable Forestry

Sustainability

Are Toilet Paper and Paper Towels Sustainable?

SManger — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 15:44:46 +0000

Are Toilet Paper and Paper Towels Sustainable?

SManger Fri, 08/09/2024 - 11:44

Why Toilet Paper and Paper Towels are a Responsible Choice

Key Takeaways

Our industry uses wood that is unsuitable for building materials and recycled paper to make toilet paper and paper towels. Making these products is a lot like following a recipe. Recycled paper and wood pulp help manufacturers deliver different qualities. U.S. tissue manufacturers need to balance using fresh wood pulp and recycled paper for a few reasons.

Toilet paper and paper towels are common staples in the home. Millions of people across the U.S. rely on paper products. Our industry prioritizes sustainable manufacturing and practices.

Below we answer common questions about toilet paper and paper towels. Dive in and explore why they are a responsible choice.

How are Toilet Paper and Paper Towels Made in the U.S.?

The U.S. tissue industry uses 2 primary inputs to make toilet paper and paper towels.

Wood

We take wood sourcing seriously.

Our members use wood that’s not suitable for building materials. This includes:

Branches
Tree tops
Stumps
Bark
Wood byproducts from sawmills

These wood materials come from sustainably managed working forests where trees are replanted.

AF&PA members adhere to sustainable fiber procurement principles. In fact, it’s a condition of membership. Procurement is how our members source the wood pulp materials they need to make the products people rely on.

These principles assure our members their suppliers are committed to sustainable forest management and harvesting practices.

Recycled Paper

3.9 M Tons

of recycled paper used in 2023

More than 90% of U.S. tissue manufacturers use recycled paper to make their products.

The recycled paper can go directly into the paper towel or toilet paper. It is also often used in packaging like the paperboard tubes these products are wrapped around.

In 2023, tissue producers used about 3.9 million tons of recycled paper. According to Fisher International, North American tissue manufacturers use more recycled paper in their products than those made in Europe and Asia.

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Is it Better to Use Recycled Paper or Wood to Make Paper Towels and Toilet Paper?

It depends on customer preferences. Recycled paper and wood pulp help paper towel and toilet paper manufacturers deliver different qualities such as

Absorbency
Strength
Versatility
Durability

Softness
Recycled content
Budget

Each of these qualities has different requirements. It’s a lot like following a recipe. Recycled paper and wood pulp have different properties that alter the final product. Similar to how different types of flour affect the outcome of a baked good.

U.S. paper towel and toilet paper manufacturers adjust the inputs they use based on what qualities they’re trying to create to meet customer demand. This gives customers multiple options so they can choose what works best for them.

Can U.S. Tissue Producers Use Only Recycled Paper to Make Paper Towels and Toilet?

U.S. paper towel manufacturers need to balance using both fresh wood pulp and recycled paper for a few reasons:

Limited Resources

The amount and type of recycled paper to make toilet paper and paper towels is limited. If the U.S. paper industry used only recycled paper to make all our products, including packaging, paper, pulp and tissue, we would run out in about 7 months.

During the recycling process, the fibers that makeup paper pulp get shorter and weaker. Eventually, they can no longer be used, and fresh wood pulp is needed.

Market Dynamics

The type of recycled paper primarily used in tissue products is mixed office paper. The amount of available mixed office paper is going down, which affects how much tissue producers can use.

Also, most of the available recycled paper manufacturers can use is from brown packaging. This is not appropriate for making white paper towels, toilet paper or other tissue products.

Like a recipe, manufacturers have to use the right mix of ingredients to make their products.

Meeting Customer Preferences

Recycled paper and fresh wood pulp produce paper towels and toilet paper with different qualities. Certain characteristics can only be achieved using fresh wood pulp.

Does Using Paper Towels and Toilet Paper Cause Deforestation?

No. The U.S. pulp and paper industry, which includes paper towel producers, is not linked to global deforestation.

U.S. forest managers have kept U.S. forestland stable since the 1950s through planting and natural regeneration. Today:

1/3 of the U.S. is forested.
The net forest area in the U.S. has increased steadily in the past 30 years.
More than 1 billion trees are planted in the U.S. each year.

Our industry uses trees from managed, working forests. These forests are continuously replanted, ensuring a healthy balance for the future.

Foresters, biologists, conservationists and other professionals work together to ensure there are healthy forests for years to come.

How Does the Paper Industry Prioritize Sustainability?

Sustainable practices are the foundation of our industry.

In 2011, AF&PA was one of the first manufacturing industries to set quantifiable sustainability goals. AF&PA members met or exceeded many of those goals.

Our members are leading the way towards a more sustainable future with 5 quantifiable sustainability goals they aim to achieve by 2030.

These commitments are about taking action. Our members are continually innovating to:

Improve water management
Reduce emissions
Enhance wildlife habitats
Capture more recycled material

Discover what sustainability in action looks like in the paper industry.

Download MIT Case Study

We developed a case study with MIT looking at what happens if tissue producers used 10% more recycled paper when making products.

Download the Case Study

Advancing Resilient U.S. Forests

AF&PA members have a 2030 sustainability goal to advance resilient U.S. forests. Explore what we’re aiming to accomplish.

Virtual Forest Tour

Want to see how working forests operate? Do a virtual forest walk through with Georgia-Pacific.

Benefits of Managed Forests

Explore how managed forests store carbon.

Industry Explainer

Marketplace Sustainability

Sustainable Forestry

Tissue

EU Anti-Deforestation Law Explainer Handout

SManger — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:31:12 +0000

EU Anti-Deforestation Law Explainer Handout

SManger Wed, 06/05/2024 - 10:31

This handout explains key things to know about how the EU anti-deforestation law (EUDR) affects the U.S. pulp and paper industry.

Download

What is the Environmental Impact of the Paper Industry?

SManger — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:50:44 +0000

What is the Environmental Impact of the Paper Industry?

SManger Mon, 06/03/2024 - 09:50

Paper products and packaging are part of our daily lives. From tissues and paper towels to the absorbent pulp in diapers to cardboard boxes to boxes that package medicine and food.

Paper production requires resources like wood, recycled paper, water and energy. Here in the U.S., the paper industry is working hard to find ways to make production and our products more sustainable.

We answered some common questions about the U.S. paper industry and its environmental impact. Dive in to explore how our industry is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Does the U.S. Paper Industry Contribute to Deforestation?

1 Billion +

trees are planted each year

No. The U.S. pulp and paper industry is not linked to global deforestation and forest degradation.

U.S. forests are strong and stable. More than 1 billion trees are replanted in the U.S. each year.

The U.S. paper industry is a responsible steward of our planet’s resources. We have a long history of sustainable forest management and innovation.

Our industry uses trees from working forests. These forests are continuously replanted, ensuring a healthy balance for the future.

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Explore How Working Forests Store Carbon

Learn More About Working Forests

How Does the U.S. Paper Industry Source its Wood Responsibly?

The industry prioritizes responsible wood sourcing. We do this in a few ways. Here's how:

Sustainable Fiber Procurement: AF&PA members adhere to sustainable fiber procurement principles as a condition of membership. Procurement is how our members get the wood they need to make the products we rely on.

These principles assure the suppliers our members source wood from are committed to sustainable forest management and harvesting practices.

Sustainable Forest Management Best Practices: We commit to sustainable forest management practices including:

Forest certification programs to provide standards, guidelines, and structure for sustainable forest management.
Fiber sourcing programs that are third-party verified and are recognized globally.

Complying with the Lacey Act: The Lacey Act combats illegal logging worldwide. It bans the import of wood, pulp and paper products that are sourced from illegally harvested forests. U.S. paper companies have to follow it.

Explore Our 2020 Forestry Goal Achievements

Check Out an Award-Winning Member Project

How Much Water is Used, and What Happens to it After Papermaking?

10x

The amount of times water can be reused

Water is an essential part of the pulp and papermaking process. The U.S. paper industry is committed to sustainable water management. Our members are continuously innovating to reduce and reuse water.

Most of the water gets returned to the environment, often cleaner than before! Water can be reused 10 times throughout the manufacturing process, saving tons of fresh water.

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Explore our Water Management 2030 Sustainability Goal

Dive into Green Bay Packaging’s Net-Zero Water Project

Is the Paper Industry a Responsible and Sustainable Manufacturer?

24% +

reduction in GHG emissions since 2005

Yes! The U.S. paper industry is a crucial part of the climate solution.

We took early, voluntary action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Since 2005, AF&PA members have reduced GHG emissions by more than 24%. And they’ve committed to reducing GHG emissions by 50% by 2030!

We’ve also improved our energy efficiency by more than 13% since 2005. This is largely due to the increased use of renewable energy like biomass.

As part of our 2030 sustainability goals, we’re advancing a circular value chain through the production of renewable and recyclable products.

That includes increasing the percentage of our products that are recyclable or compostable. We’re also increasing the use of secondary materials like recycled paper and wood leftovers.

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Get a Closer Look at How Our Industry Achieves Sustainability

Get the Facts About Energy Use in the Paper Industry

Where Can I Learn More About the U.S. Paper Industry's Sustainability Efforts?

Learn more about our Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 sustainability initiative and our previous accomplishments.

Our industry takes the environmental impact of paper production seriously. Our members are leading the way towards a more sustainable future for paper through our commitment to responsible forestry, water management and reducing GHG emissions.

^{Photo credit: Domtar}

Why the EU Needs to Reconsider Their Deforestation Law

SManger — Wed, 29 May 2024 18:50:01 +0000

Why the EU Needs to Reconsider Their Deforestation Law

SManger Wed, 05/29/2024 - 14:50

Key Things to Know About How EUDR Affects the U.S. Pulp and Paper Industry

The European Union (EU) issued a new law in 2023 called the European Union Deforestation-Free Products Regulation (EUDR). The law is part of the comprehensive EU Green Deal.

EUDR aims to curb deforestation and forest degradation that could be linked to the import or export of certain commodities in the EU. We support what the EU is trying to achieve with their anti-deforestation law.

We have a long history of sustainable forest management. We also have a track record of success in environmental stewardship.

The U.S. pulp and paper industry is not linked to global deforestation and forest degradation.

However, as with all laws and regulations, details matter. EUDR, as currently written, imposes some unachievable requirements that create significant technical barriers, which risks trade between the EU and the U.S.

Let’s explore why the anti-deforestation law puts the U.S. pulp and paper industry at risk. We explain:

How a company complies with the law
Why the U.S. pulp paper industry does not contribute to deforestation and forest degradation
The complexity and impractical nature of the traceability requirement
Why the traceability requirement would disrupt trade
A workable solution to avoid trade disruptions

Download the EUDR Explainer Handout

What is the EU’s Deforestation Law?

The European Union Deforestation-Free Products Regulation went into effect in June of 2023. The law aims to fight global deforestation and forest degradation by regulating certain products entering or leaving the EU market.

This law is unprecedented because of the requirements it imposes to comply with the law.

It requires EU importers and exporters to prove their agricultural products are:

Deforestation and forest degradation-free after 2020
In compliance with country laws
Supported by a mandatory Due Diligence Statement and extensive accompanying data

Is Paper Included in EUDR?

60%

the amount of specialty pulp supply the U.S. ships to the EU

Yes. Wood and products made with wood fiber from trees are included in the law. For our industry, that includes:

Materials used to make a final product like pulp, printing paper, and packaging materials used to make items like cardboard boxes, cereal boxes and shoe boxes.
Final products like books, paper towels, diapers or medicine boxes.

U.S. forest product exports to the EU are valued at over $3.5 billion. The U.S. ships about 60% of the EU’s supply of specialty pulp that’s used to make things like diapers, menstrual and incontinence products.

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How Does a Company Comply with EUDR?

The EU’s deforestation law has multiple requirements companies must comply with. There are 3 key conditions to put products in or out of the EU marketplace:

Proof the products do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation.
Product production follows the laws of the country where they are produced. That includes complying with:
1. Environmental protection regulations
2. Land-use rights
3. Forest management rules
4. Labor laws
5. Tax laws
6. Human rights laws
Every shipment is accompanied by a due diligence statement which includes comprehensive information:
1. Product trade name, description, name(s) of tree species, and quantity.
2. Geolocation of all plots of land from which the product originates, with time and date range of production.
3. Contact details of supplier and client d. Upload all data through an EU Central Information System

Companies and producers must comply starting December 30, 2024. Those not in compliance can be fined and have their products seized.

The U.S. Pulp and Paper Industry Does Not Contribute to Global Deforestation and Forest Degradation

1/3

of the U.S.
is forested

1 Billion +

trees are planted
each year in the U.S.

For 30 years

net forest area has
increased steadily

The U.S. pulp and paper industry is not linked to global deforestation and forest degradation.

Today, U.S. forests are stable, healthy and growing:

1/3 of the U.S. is forested.
More than 1 billion trees are planted each year.
The net forest area in the U.S. has increased steadily in the past 30 years.

Our industry is committed to sustainable forest management best practices including:

Forest certification programs to provide standards, guidelines and structure for sustainable forest management.
Fiber sourcing programs that are third-party verified and are recognized globally.

Additionally, AF&PA members adhere to sustainable fiber procurement principles as a condition of membership. Procurement is how our members get the wood they need to make the products we rely on

These principles assure the suppliers our members source wood from are committed to sustainable forest management and harvesting practices.

We also have a 2030 sustainability goal to advance more resilient U.S. forests. It’s part of our Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future initiative.

Our goal furthers our efforts by enhancing the diverse values forests provide. Things like water, carbon, biodiversity, recreation and forest products.

We’re doing this through:

Supporting conservation and restoration programs and initiatives
Engaging in partnerships and investing in research, outreach and education
Promoting sustainable forest management practices
Committing to increased supply chain transparency regarding responsible sourcing.

As part of Better Practices, Better Planet 2030, AF&PA members will also continue their commitment to procure wood fiber through certified sourcing.

Check Out an Award-Winning Member Forestry Project

Explore How Managed Forests Store Carbon

Dive Into our 2020 Forestry Goal Achievements

The EU’s Deforestation Law is Concerning for the U.S. Pulp and Paper Industry

What’s concerning for our industry is how EUDR will be implemented, especially EUDR’s strict geolocation traceability requirements. This requirement could pose technical trade barriers for U.S. companies based on our complex supply chain and fiber flow process.

Let’s break down the traceability requirement and why U.S. producers cannot currently comply with it.

What is the EUDR Traceability Requirement?

The EU’s deforestation law requires producers to trace each product shipment back to the specific real estate plots of land that is or could be linked to the shipment. That means providing the exact geographic location coordinates like those from a GPS.

In addition, each exporter must identify and provide contact information from the supply chain associated with each shipment. This is part of their due diligence obligations.

This may sound good in theory, but pulp and paper supply chains are complex.

Understanding How U.S. Pulp and Paper Supply Chains Work

40%

of wood input comes from leftover materials

In the U.S., more than half of forest land is owned and managed by an estimated 10.6 million private forest owners. These private forests provide about 90% of the wood to make forest products.

Our industry uses multiple wood inputs from these:

About 40% comes from leftover materials from a sawmill or forest residue. Forest residue includes branches, stumps, bark and more that are left over after a thinning or harvest.
About 60% comes from solid wood harvests.

Our use of leftover materials and forest residues is one of the ways we’re helping advance the circular economy.

The wood inputs used to make a single batch of pulp at a mill can come from multiple sources. This is called a fiber flow.

That’s because wood and wood chips mix throughout the supply chain including:

Initial storage of a log or leftover material
Chipping process at a saw, chip or pulp and paper mill
Chip pile at a pulp and paper mill
Pulping process
Paper machine

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U.S. Pulp and Paper Mills Cannot Comply with EUDR’s Unrealistic Traceability Requirement

No current

technology to trace fiber flow

The EUDR’s strict geolocation and traceability requirements pose significant challenges because of our industry’s complex supply chains.

The leftover materials from sawmills and forest residues our industry uses are regularly blended multiple times throughout the production process.

This makes tracing each individual wood chip from the original forest plot of land to a final product effectively impossible.

Additionally, the technology needed to trace our fiber flow to comply with this requirement does not currently exist.

The unachievable traceability requirement could cause major trade disruptions between the EU and the U.S.

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Trade Consequences of EUDR’s Traceability Requirement

The EU relies on pulp and paper imports from the U.S. We export around $3.5 billion worth of products to EU countries.

We also supply about 60% of the specialty pulp EU manufacturers use to make diapers, menstrual and incontinence products. The U.S. supplies 85% of the specialty pulp used globally.

EU manufacturers would not receive the supply of specialty pulp needed if U.S. pulp and paper manufacturers cannot overcome the technical barriers of the traceability requirement.

This would cause significant trade disruptions between the U.S. and the EU and disrupt the EU marketplace.

Developing a Workable Solution for the Challenges EUDR Poses to the U.S. Pulp and Paper Industry

We encourage the European Commission to consider the challenges EUDR poses for the U.S. pulp and paper industry to avoid major trade disruptions.

The U.S. pulp and paper industry is a responsible steward of our planet’s resources. We have long history of sustainable forest management and innovation.

The U.S. pulp and paper industry is not linked to global deforestation and forest degradation.

We are a strong proponent of international efforts to suppress deforestation and forest degradation. This is why we need to be considered a “low-risk” country.

That’s why we need a realistic solution that recognizes U.S. sustainable forestry management and will enable our producers to comply with the intent of the EU deforestation-free regulation without disrupting trade between the EU and the U.S.

We are not alone in our concerns with the implementation of EUDR:

The U.S. Congress has weighed in multiple times through bipartisan letters from both chambers:
- Members of the U.S. Senate urged the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to engage with the European Commission to gain clarity around the regulation’s requirements.
- Members of the U.S. House sent a letter to USTR.
The U.S. government called for a delay in a joint letter.
Multiple EU members called for a delay in implementation.
Other key members of the U.S. forest products industry value chain have asked the European Commission to delay the implementation.

We believe in balanced and achievable regulations. We welcome the opportunity to work together with EU regulators and other stakeholders in the implementation of EUDR.

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