Here Are Six Ways Paper Companies Contribute to Protecting Forests
Paper companies play a crucial role in safeguarding forests through a range of impactful and sustainable initiatives. Thanks to the efforts of the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI), European forests—where over 90% of the wood fiber for the region’s paper mills is sourced—are flourishing, expanding by an area equivalent to 1,500 football pitches every day.
Impressively, more than 70% of these forests are certified under FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) standards, reflecting the print and paper industry’s commitment to sustainability.
By adopting responsible forestry practices, these companies ensure that trees are replanted and forests remain vibrant and healthy for generations to come. Through sourcing wood from certified forests, paper companies actively support balanced forest management that harmonizes environmental protection, social benefits, and economic growth.
Furthermore, paper companies also protect biodiversity by setting aside areas of high conservation value within their managed forests, safeguarding critical habitats and species. Additionally, they develop innovative, eco-friendly products like compostable and recyclable paper alternatives, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.
A global player like APP Group is proving that sustainable forest management is not only possible but essential for the future of the industry. For over a decade, APP Group has upheld its commitment to zero-deforestation by adopting the Forest Conservation Policy (FCP)[1]. The policy is integrating innovative strategies to protect and restore forest ecosystems while meeting production demands. Some key strategies that APP Group has done to manage sustainable forests are:
Zero-Deforestation Commitment
APP Group ensures that no natural forests are cleared for its operations. Instead, the company sources wood from responsibly managed plantations, reducing pressure on natural ecosystems. The Integrated Sustainable Forest Management Plan (ISFMP) is a key initiative designed to support the implementation of APP Group’s Forest Conservation Policy commitments. The ISFMP was developed through a comprehensive collaborative process involving the collection and consolidation of data and recommendations. These inputs were gathered through various assessments, such as High Conservation Value (HCV), High Carbon Stock (HCS), and social conflict mapping. The process also incorporated feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including local communities, governments, academics, and civil society.
Forest Protection and Conservation
APP Group is dedicated to safeguarding natural forests and enhancing community livelihoods. To support this commitment, the company has implemented an advanced Forest Alert System to monitor forest cover changes within its suppliers’ concession areas. In 2023, the system delivered promising results, showing a reduction in forest cover change from 0.29% to 0.13%. This decrease highlights progress in forest conservation efforts.[2]
Fire Prevention and Monitoring
Forest fires are a significant threat to sustainability. APP Group employs advanced monitoring systems, such as satellite technology and on-the-ground patrols, to detect and prevent fires. Community engagement programs also educate locals on fire prevention.
Community Empowerment Programs
APP Group works closely with local communities to provide alternative livelihoods, reducing dependency on forest resources. Initiatives like agroforestry and eco-tourism offer sustainable income while fostering a sense of shared responsibility for forest conservation.
Transparency and Reporting
APP Group publishes regular sustainability reports to share progress, challenges, and goals. By being transparent, the company builds trust with stakeholders and sets a benchmark for industry accountability.
Preserving Indonesia’s Key Species
APP Group also has a conservation program that focuses on three priority wildlife species: the Sumatran tiger, Sumatran elephant, and orangutan. Each initiative aims to protect and sustain the populations of these species within APP’s concession areas. To achieve this, APP Group monitors population numbers, maps their distribution, minimizes human-wildlife conflicts, establishes ecological corridors within and between concessions, and ultimately works to increase the populations of these vital species. APP Group’s efforts demonstrate that sustainable practices can coexist with industrial operations, benefiting both the environment and local communities. By adhering to its zero-deforestation pledge and investing in innovative conservation strategies, APP Group is setting a new standard for responsible forestry management.