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AF&PA

WASHINGTON, DC, June 30, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement in response to the Oregon Legislature passing the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (SB 582).

“AF&PA looks forward to working with Oregon Governor Kate Brown and the Department of Environmental Quality DEQ to make sure that highly recycled materials, like paper, are not penalized or forced to subsidize plastic recycling. While well-intended, SB 582 has significant consequences for small businesses and manufacturers, including the paper and wood products industry, which employs more than 28,000 people in Oregon.

“Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act may make sense for hazardous or hard-to-recycle materials. However, paper is a recycling success. Almost two-thirds of all paper was recycled last year, and for over a decade, paper recycling has met or exceeded 63 percent. AF&PA members have a demonstrated record making our products more sustainable and circular. We look forward to working on an implementation plan that recognizes the recycling and sustainability success of paper.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative—Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

AF&PA issues statement in response to Oregon Legislature passing Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act

Posted in: Environment 07/01/2021 - 12:26

WASHINGTON, DC, June 30, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement in response to the Oregon Legislature passing the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (SB 582).

“AF&PA looks forward to working with Oregon Governor Kate Brown and the Department of Environmental Quality DEQ to make sure that highly recycled materials, like paper, are not penalized or forced to subsidize plastic recycling. While well-intended, SB 582 has significant consequences for small businesses and manufacturers, including the paper and wood products industry, which employs more than 28,000 people in Oregon.

“Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act may make sense for hazardous or hard-to-recycle materials. However, paper is a recycling success. Almost two-thirds of all paper was recycled last year, and for over a decade, paper recycling has met or exceeded 63 percent. AF&PA members have a demonstrated record making our products more sustainable and circular. We look forward to working on an implementation plan that recognizes the recycling and sustainability success of paper.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative—Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

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WASHINGTON, DC, June 22, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement in opposition to the Maine Legislature’s passage of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging (LD 1541):   

”American Forest & Paper Association members have a measurable record of success in making paper and paper-based packaging more sustainable and circular through market-based approaches. Maine’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging ignores the fact that our industry has achieved a consistently high paper recycling rate. Last year, nearly two-thirds of all paper was recycled, and for over a decade, paper recycling has met or exceeded 63 percent.

“We urge Governor Janet Mills to veto Maine LD 1541. The current bill has direct consequences for Maine’s businesses and manufacturers, including the forest products industry, which operates 35 facilities and employs more than 13,000 people in the Pine Tree State. This legislation does not recognize the material recovery and market development achievements of the paper industry, and it should be based on sound policy that benefits the environment, consumers and reflects best practices for doing business and creating jobs.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative—Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

AF&PA urges Maine governor to veto Maine LD 1541 Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging legislation

Posted in: Environment 06/23/2021 - 12:07

WASHINGTON, DC, June 22, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement in opposition to the Maine Legislature’s passage of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging (LD 1541):   

”American Forest & Paper Association members have a measurable record of success in making paper and paper-based packaging more sustainable and circular through market-based approaches. Maine’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging ignores the fact that our industry has achieved a consistently high paper recycling rate. Last year, nearly two-thirds of all paper was recycled, and for over a decade, paper recycling has met or exceeded 63 percent.

“We urge Governor Janet Mills to veto Maine LD 1541. The current bill has direct consequences for Maine’s businesses and manufacturers, including the forest products industry, which operates 35 facilities and employs more than 13,000 people in the Pine Tree State. This legislation does not recognize the material recovery and market development achievements of the paper industry, and it should be based on sound policy that benefits the environment, consumers and reflects best practices for doing business and creating jobs.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative—Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

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WASHINGTON, DC, June 15, 2021 (Press Release) -Continuing its leadership in sustainability, the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today announced Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future, a new set of sustainability goals for the paper and wood products industry.

“We have been and will continue to be a leader in sustainability,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock. “The paper and wood products industry was one of the first U.S. manufacturing industries to adopt quantifiable sustainability goals back in 2011, and today these new ambitious goals will build upon that success in the decade ahead.”

Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 advances the industry’s comprehensive sustainability record over the last decade and includes a transparent reporting process for achieving each goal.

“Sustainable practices are at the foundation of this industry, which manufactures essential and innovative products used by millions of Americans each day, from renewable resources,” said Graphic Packaging President and Chief Executive Officer and AF&PA Board Chair Mike Doss. “We have a strong track record of delivering on sustainability commitments and these goals will guide our progress further into the future.”

The five Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 sustainability goals include reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; advancing a circular value chain through the production of renewable and recyclable products; striving for zero workplace injuries, as well as reducing serious injuries and fatalities (SIFs); driving water stewardship throughout manufacturing operations; and more resilient U.S. forests.

To date, AF&PA members have met or exceeded many of the sustainability goals outlined in Better Practices, Better Planet 2020, launched in 2011. Those achievements include a 23.2 percent reduction in GHG emissions; 13.3 percent improvement in energy efficiency; 38.4 percent reduction in workplace injuries; and 12 percentage point increase in wood fiber procurement from certified forestlands. The final Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 report will be released this fall.

“Importantly, our strength as an industry stems from the diversity of our people,” Brock said. “The paper and wood products industry fosters and promotes a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce by uniting people from different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to work in partnership.”

Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 reinforces the industry’s values with a statement of principles on diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I), helping AF&PA advance DE&I in the paper and wood products industry and facilitating an exchange of members’ ideas and information.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular in nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

AF&PA announces Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future

Posted in: Environment 06/15/2021 - 10:25

WASHINGTON, DC, June 15, 2021 (Press Release) -Continuing its leadership in sustainability, the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today announced Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future, a new set of sustainability goals for the paper and wood products industry.

“We have been and will continue to be a leader in sustainability,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock. “The paper and wood products industry was one of the first U.S. manufacturing industries to adopt quantifiable sustainability goals back in 2011, and today these new ambitious goals will build upon that success in the decade ahead.”

Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 advances the industry’s comprehensive sustainability record over the last decade and includes a transparent reporting process for achieving each goal.

“Sustainable practices are at the foundation of this industry, which manufactures essential and innovative products used by millions of Americans each day, from renewable resources,” said Graphic Packaging President and Chief Executive Officer and AF&PA Board Chair Mike Doss. “We have a strong track record of delivering on sustainability commitments and these goals will guide our progress further into the future.”

The five Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 sustainability goals include reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; advancing a circular value chain through the production of renewable and recyclable products; striving for zero workplace injuries, as well as reducing serious injuries and fatalities (SIFs); driving water stewardship throughout manufacturing operations; and more resilient U.S. forests.

To date, AF&PA members have met or exceeded many of the sustainability goals outlined in Better Practices, Better Planet 2020, launched in 2011. Those achievements include a 23.2 percent reduction in GHG emissions; 13.3 percent improvement in energy efficiency; 38.4 percent reduction in workplace injuries; and 12 percentage point increase in wood fiber procurement from certified forestlands. The final Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 report will be released this fall.

“Importantly, our strength as an industry stems from the diversity of our people,” Brock said. “The paper and wood products industry fosters and promotes a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce by uniting people from different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to work in partnership.”

Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 reinforces the industry’s values with a statement of principles on diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I), helping AF&PA advance DE&I in the paper and wood products industry and facilitating an exchange of members’ ideas and information.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular in nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

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FORT MILL, SC, May 20, 2021 (Press Release) -In a time of renewed emphasis on reducing waste, paper recycling rates for products and packaging set the industry apart.

Many states have introduced legislation, called extended producer responsibility bills, that target how consumer products are disposed after use. Several of these proposals aim to make producers responsible for managing the disposal of various goods in an effort to keep them out of landfills. Examples include mattresses, plastic packaging, chemicals, electronics and more.

Paper-based packaging has been included in some proposals, but the good news is paper recycling rates are already high. Even during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, which saw an increase in single-use everything, 65.7 percent of paper consumed in the United States was recycled, according to research by the American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA).

Since 2009, AF&PA reports, paper recycling rates have met or exceeded 63 percent — nearly double the rate achieve by the U.S. paper industry in 1990.

Paper recycling rates of old corrugated containers (OCC) — material used in cardboard boxes — reached 88.8 percent, with a three-year average of 92.4 percent.

“In an unprecedented and dynamic year defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, almost two-thirds of paper was recycled and transformed into new sustainable paper products,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock in a news release announcing the results. “The resilience and commitment of our industry is notable, as is engagement of consumers in the paper recycling process. The result is a consistent and high rate for paper recycling.”

Paper recycling has limits, but each time it is recycled, it extends the life of fiber from our forests and keeps it out of the waste stream. Packaging design can affect its recyclability, but AF&PA offers a design guide to help producers meet their recyclability goals.

“Paper recycling continues to be a success, and the U.S. paper industry plays an essential role,” Brock said. “Our industry leadership remains strong with $4.1 billion in manufacturing infrastructure investments, announced, planned or made, from 2019-2023, to continue the best use of recycled fiber in our products.”

Domtar announces paper recycling rates for products and packaging set industry apart

Posted in: Environment 05/21/2021 - 13:41

FORT MILL, SC, May 20, 2021 (Press Release) -In a time of renewed emphasis on reducing waste, paper recycling rates for products and packaging set the industry apart.

Many states have introduced legislation, called extended producer responsibility bills, that target how consumer products are disposed after use. Several of these proposals aim to make producers responsible for managing the disposal of various goods in an effort to keep them out of landfills. Examples include mattresses, plastic packaging, chemicals, electronics and more.

Paper-based packaging has been included in some proposals, but the good news is paper recycling rates are already high. Even during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, which saw an increase in single-use everything, 65.7 percent of paper consumed in the United States was recycled, according to research by the American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA).

Since 2009, AF&PA reports, paper recycling rates have met or exceeded 63 percent — nearly double the rate achieve by the U.S. paper industry in 1990.

Paper recycling rates of old corrugated containers (OCC) — material used in cardboard boxes — reached 88.8 percent, with a three-year average of 92.4 percent.

“In an unprecedented and dynamic year defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, almost two-thirds of paper was recycled and transformed into new sustainable paper products,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock in a news release announcing the results. “The resilience and commitment of our industry is notable, as is engagement of consumers in the paper recycling process. The result is a consistent and high rate for paper recycling.”

Paper recycling has limits, but each time it is recycled, it extends the life of fiber from our forests and keeps it out of the waste stream. Packaging design can affect its recyclability, but AF&PA offers a design guide to help producers meet their recyclability goals.

“Paper recycling continues to be a success, and the U.S. paper industry plays an essential role,” Brock said. “Our industry leadership remains strong with $4.1 billion in manufacturing infrastructure investments, announced, planned or made, from 2019-2023, to continue the best use of recycled fiber in our products.”

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WASHINGTON, DC, May 20, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today released the 61st Paper Industry Capacity and Fiber Consumption Report, indicating overall U.S. paper and paperboard capacity declined 1.6 percent in 2020, compared to the average decline of 1.1 percent per year since 2011.

Notably in 2020, containerboard capacity expanded, continuing a decade-long trend, and reaching a record high of 40.4 million tons. Tissue paper capacity has also been trending upward, increasing for the past five years, as well as eight of the last 10 years.

Meanwhile, U.S. mill consumption of recovered fiber reached the second-highest level in the past decade. The increase was driven by mill consumption of corrugated, the largest grade of recovered fiber, which reached a record high of 22.8 million tons in 2020.

Boxboard was the only packaging grade to decline last year, however survey responses indicate a slight rebound in 2021.

Experiencing continued secular decline from displacement by electronic communication, capacity for newsprint and printing-writing papers decreased in 2020, with capacity for both grades declining in the past decade. Some machines that historically produced printing-writing papers have been and are being repurposed to produce containerboard and packaging paper.

Survey responses indicate total paper and paperboard capacity will remain essentially flat, decreasing less than one-half of one percent in 2021.

The survey reports U.S. industry capacity data for 2020 and 2021 for all major grades of paper, paperboard and pulp, as well as fiber consumption, based on a comprehensive survey of all U.S. pulp and paper mills. Survey data includes responses from companies representing more than 86 percent of U.S. paper and paperboard industry capacity, with estimates completing the data set.

The complete survey with detailed tables is available for $2,340.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2020. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

AF&PA releases 61st Paper Industry Capacity and Fiber Consumption Report, containerboard reaches record highs

Posted in: Packaging Technology 05/20/2021 - 13:19

WASHINGTON, DC, May 20, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today released the 61st Paper Industry Capacity and Fiber Consumption Report, indicating overall U.S. paper and paperboard capacity declined 1.6 percent in 2020, compared to the average decline of 1.1 percent per year since 2011.

Notably in 2020, containerboard capacity expanded, continuing a decade-long trend, and reaching a record high of 40.4 million tons. Tissue paper capacity has also been trending upward, increasing for the past five years, as well as eight of the last 10 years.

Meanwhile, U.S. mill consumption of recovered fiber reached the second-highest level in the past decade. The increase was driven by mill consumption of corrugated, the largest grade of recovered fiber, which reached a record high of 22.8 million tons in 2020.

Boxboard was the only packaging grade to decline last year, however survey responses indicate a slight rebound in 2021.

Experiencing continued secular decline from displacement by electronic communication, capacity for newsprint and printing-writing papers decreased in 2020, with capacity for both grades declining in the past decade. Some machines that historically produced printing-writing papers have been and are being repurposed to produce containerboard and packaging paper.

Survey responses indicate total paper and paperboard capacity will remain essentially flat, decreasing less than one-half of one percent in 2021.

The survey reports U.S. industry capacity data for 2020 and 2021 for all major grades of paper, paperboard and pulp, as well as fiber consumption, based on a comprehensive survey of all U.S. pulp and paper mills. Survey data includes responses from companies representing more than 86 percent of U.S. paper and paperboard industry capacity, with estimates completing the data set.

The complete survey with detailed tables is available for $2,340.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2020. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

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WASHINGTON, DC, May 20, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today released the 61st Paper Industry Capacity and Fiber Consumption Report, indicating overall U.S. paper and paperboard capacity declined 1.6 percent in 2020, compared to the average decline of 1.1 percent per year since 2011.

Notably in 2020, containerboard capacity expanded, continuing a decade-long trend, and reaching a record high of 40.4 million tons. Tissue paper capacity has also been trending upward, increasing for the past five years, as well as eight of the last 10 years.

Meanwhile, U.S. mill consumption of recovered fiber reached the second-highest level in the past decade. The increase was driven by mill consumption of corrugated, the largest grade of recovered fiber, which reached a record high of 22.8 million tons in 2020.

Boxboard was the only packaging grade to decline last year, however survey responses indicate a slight rebound in 2021.

Experiencing continued secular decline from displacement by electronic communication, capacity for newsprint and printing-writing papers decreased in 2020, with capacity for both grades declining in the past decade. Some machines that historically produced printing-writing papers have been and are being repurposed to produce containerboard and packaging paper.

Survey responses indicate total paper and paperboard capacity will remain essentially flat, decreasing less than one-half of one percent in 2021.

The survey reports U.S. industry capacity data for 2020 and 2021 for all major grades of paper, paperboard and pulp, as well as fiber consumption, based on a comprehensive survey of all U.S. pulp and paper mills. Survey data includes responses from companies representing more than 86 percent of U.S. paper and paperboard industry capacity, with estimates completing the data set.

The complete survey with detailed tables is available for $2,340.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2020. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

AF&PA releases 61st Paper Industry Capacity and Fiber Consumption Report, containerboard reaches record highs

Posted in: Tissue 05/20/2021 - 13:19

WASHINGTON, DC, May 20, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today released the 61st Paper Industry Capacity and Fiber Consumption Report, indicating overall U.S. paper and paperboard capacity declined 1.6 percent in 2020, compared to the average decline of 1.1 percent per year since 2011.

Notably in 2020, containerboard capacity expanded, continuing a decade-long trend, and reaching a record high of 40.4 million tons. Tissue paper capacity has also been trending upward, increasing for the past five years, as well as eight of the last 10 years.

Meanwhile, U.S. mill consumption of recovered fiber reached the second-highest level in the past decade. The increase was driven by mill consumption of corrugated, the largest grade of recovered fiber, which reached a record high of 22.8 million tons in 2020.

Boxboard was the only packaging grade to decline last year, however survey responses indicate a slight rebound in 2021.

Experiencing continued secular decline from displacement by electronic communication, capacity for newsprint and printing-writing papers decreased in 2020, with capacity for both grades declining in the past decade. Some machines that historically produced printing-writing papers have been and are being repurposed to produce containerboard and packaging paper.

Survey responses indicate total paper and paperboard capacity will remain essentially flat, decreasing less than one-half of one percent in 2021.

The survey reports U.S. industry capacity data for 2020 and 2021 for all major grades of paper, paperboard and pulp, as well as fiber consumption, based on a comprehensive survey of all U.S. pulp and paper mills. Survey data includes responses from companies representing more than 86 percent of U.S. paper and paperboard industry capacity, with estimates completing the data set.

The complete survey with detailed tables is available for $2,340.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2020. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

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WASHINGTON, DC, April 29, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today joined the International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA) in presenting three young scientists with the 2021 Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Award at the ICFPA-hosted Global CEO Roundtable, a biennial gathering of forest product industry associations and leaders.

Launched in 2016, the international contest recognizes, celebrates and promotes noteworthy innovations being developed in the global forest sector by students, researchers and engineers age 30 years and younger.

Among the three international finalists for the 2021 competition is Udita Ringania, a Ph.D. candidate and Bahmal Lab Fellow from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Ringania was recognized for her research project, Dewatering of Cellulose Nanomaterials Using Ultrasound.

“Udita Ringania’s research is an impressive example of innovation in the forest products industry with great potential to help paper and packaging manufacturers advance sustainability,” said Heidi Brock, AF&PA president and CEO. “On behalf of AF&PA and our members, we congratulate Udita and look forward to seeing this exciting research progress.”

The theme for the 2020-2021 award program was “Boosting the Forest Bioeconomy: Nature-Based Solutions Toward a Lower Carbon Economy.”

In addition to Ringania, two other international finalists were recognized:

  • Jesús Rodríguez of Chile for research, Flexbio, A Biodegradable and Compostable Bioplastic. Radiata Pine Sawdust Derivative.
  • Francine Ceccon Claro of Brazil for research, Low Cost Wood-Derived Nanocellulose Wound Dressing.

AF&PA and TAPPI manage the U.S. Blue Sky Award application and selection process, nominating up to three candidates for the international competition. The U.S. judging panel was organized by David Turpin of the Alliance for Pulp & Paper Technology Innovation.

The international Blue Sky Awards program is sponsored by the ICFPA, a worldwide network of forest and paper associations that promotes cooperation in areas of common interest to its members and serves as the industry’s advocate at the international level.

The 2021 Blue Sky Award competition included 21 contestants from nine countries around the world. This year’s judging panel included representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, United Nations Forum on Forests Secretariat, International Union of Forest Research Organizations, Monash University and University of British Columbia.

The top three finalists presented their work at the ICFPA’s virtual Global CEO Roundtable discussion and were awarded cash prizes for their achievement. Mike Doss, president and chief executive officer for Graphic Packaging presented Udita with her award.

“The Blue Sky Awards are proof of a vibrant, bright future for an essential and sustainable forest products industry,” said Doss. “The talent and innovation demonstrated by this year’s finalists is impressive.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2020. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

AF&PA joins ICFPA in presenting three young scientists with 2021 Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Award

Posted in: Environment 04/29/2021 - 11:21

WASHINGTON, DC, April 29, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today joined the International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA) in presenting three young scientists with the 2021 Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Award at the ICFPA-hosted Global CEO Roundtable, a biennial gathering of forest product industry associations and leaders.

Launched in 2016, the international contest recognizes, celebrates and promotes noteworthy innovations being developed in the global forest sector by students, researchers and engineers age 30 years and younger.

Among the three international finalists for the 2021 competition is Udita Ringania, a Ph.D. candidate and Bahmal Lab Fellow from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Ringania was recognized for her research project, Dewatering of Cellulose Nanomaterials Using Ultrasound.

“Udita Ringania’s research is an impressive example of innovation in the forest products industry with great potential to help paper and packaging manufacturers advance sustainability,” said Heidi Brock, AF&PA president and CEO. “On behalf of AF&PA and our members, we congratulate Udita and look forward to seeing this exciting research progress.”

The theme for the 2020-2021 award program was “Boosting the Forest Bioeconomy: Nature-Based Solutions Toward a Lower Carbon Economy.”

In addition to Ringania, two other international finalists were recognized:

  • Jesús Rodríguez of Chile for research, Flexbio, A Biodegradable and Compostable Bioplastic. Radiata Pine Sawdust Derivative.
  • Francine Ceccon Claro of Brazil for research, Low Cost Wood-Derived Nanocellulose Wound Dressing.

AF&PA and TAPPI manage the U.S. Blue Sky Award application and selection process, nominating up to three candidates for the international competition. The U.S. judging panel was organized by David Turpin of the Alliance for Pulp & Paper Technology Innovation.

The international Blue Sky Awards program is sponsored by the ICFPA, a worldwide network of forest and paper associations that promotes cooperation in areas of common interest to its members and serves as the industry’s advocate at the international level.

The 2021 Blue Sky Award competition included 21 contestants from nine countries around the world. This year’s judging panel included representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, United Nations Forum on Forests Secretariat, International Union of Forest Research Organizations, Monash University and University of British Columbia.

The top three finalists presented their work at the ICFPA’s virtual Global CEO Roundtable discussion and were awarded cash prizes for their achievement. Mike Doss, president and chief executive officer for Graphic Packaging presented Udita with her award.

“The Blue Sky Awards are proof of a vibrant, bright future for an essential and sustainable forest products industry,” said Doss. “The talent and innovation demonstrated by this year’s finalists is impressive.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2020. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states.

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WASHINGTON, DC, April 22, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate held virtually today and tomorrow with world leaders: 

“We welcome President Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate. Paper and wood products manufacturers produce enormous amounts of carbon-beneficial bioenergy, integral to making sustainable products that meet essential needs around the world. Our industry will continue to create jobs and economic opportunities for Americans, especially as we push forward on a U.S. economic recovery effort. 

 “AF&PA was one of the first U.S. manufacturing industries to adopt a comprehensive, quantifiable set of sustainability goals a decade ago in our Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 initiative. Included in this effort was a goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which we cut 23.2 percent by 2018, surpassing our goal. Since the 1990s, we also cut our GHG emissions in half, and looking forward, we will soon release the industry’s new sustainability goals for 2030, including a new ambitious target for further greenhouse gas reductions.  

“We urge the Biden Administration to support policies that recognize our industry is one based on a renewable and recyclable resource, that our products are manufactured using renewable bioenergy, and after use, are widely and highly recycled.  

“Public policies are most effective when they meet the economic needs, environmental concerns and societal expectations of our diverse communities. Our progress in renewable energy and sustainability goals demonstrates that a balance is both possible and necessary.” 

AF&PA welcomes President Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate

Posted in: Environment 04/23/2021 - 17:06

WASHINGTON, DC, April 22, 2021 (Press Release) -The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate held virtually today and tomorrow with world leaders: 

“We welcome President Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate. Paper and wood products manufacturers produce enormous amounts of carbon-beneficial bioenergy, integral to making sustainable products that meet essential needs around the world. Our industry will continue to create jobs and economic opportunities for Americans, especially as we push forward on a U.S. economic recovery effort. 

 “AF&PA was one of the first U.S. manufacturing industries to adopt a comprehensive, quantifiable set of sustainability goals a decade ago in our Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 initiative. Included in this effort was a goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which we cut 23.2 percent by 2018, surpassing our goal. Since the 1990s, we also cut our GHG emissions in half, and looking forward, we will soon release the industry’s new sustainability goals for 2030, including a new ambitious target for further greenhouse gas reductions.  

“We urge the Biden Administration to support policies that recognize our industry is one based on a renewable and recyclable resource, that our products are manufactured using renewable bioenergy, and after use, are widely and highly recycled.  

“Public policies are most effective when they meet the economic needs, environmental concerns and societal expectations of our diverse communities. Our progress in renewable energy and sustainability goals demonstrates that a balance is both possible and necessary.” 

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