International Paper (IP), one of the world’s leading companies in pulp and packaging production, has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation with a US$15.3 million investment to renew strategic alliances with organizations dedicated to preservation.
Among the partners are the American Forest Foundation (AFF), National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and World Wildlife Fund (WWF). This investment is part of IP’s Vision 2030 goal, which aims to conserve and restore 1 million acres of ecologically significant forest lands.
Sophie Beckham, Vice President and Director of Sustainability at International Paper, highlighted: “International Paper’s success depends on the sustainability of forests – and so does the future of our planet. Renewing these strategic partnerships underscores our commitment to positively impact nature while delivering low-carbon, sustainable, fiber-based products to our customers”.
Among the supported initiatives, IP’s collaboration with AFF on the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP) has been crucial. Developed by AFF and TNC, the FFCP provides climate financing for family forest owners. IP’s support has enabled the program’s expansion in the Central Appalachians and its imminent activity in the southeastern U.S., focusing on reforestation and improved forest management practices.
The Forestland Stewards Partnership (FSP) with NFWF, expanded in 2022 with a US$10 million commitment over five years, has promoted the restoration of longleaf pines and bottomland hardwoods. Since 2013, the FSP has conserved more than 1.6 million acres of forests in the southern U.S., advancing wildlife conservation and sustainable forestry practices.
Since 2018, IP’s collaboration with TNC has advanced sustainable forestry practices and the identification of natural climate solutions. The recently renewed partnership aims to enhance efforts in responsible forestry, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity monitoring in the Central Appalachian region of the U.S. and Mexico.
Additionally, IP stands out as one of the first companies to join WWF’s Forests Forward program. The latest collaboration involves supporting partners in the Mobile Basin, Mississippi, and Alabama, focusing on the preservation of heritage properties. The initiative provides legal support and resources to help Black landowners maintain generational lands and conserve productive forests.
“These partnerships are essential for enhancing sustainability across our value chain,” said Beckham. “By collaborating with AFF, NFWF, TNC and WWF, International Paper will scale our impact, learn from trusted partners, and drive positive change for people and the planet,” she concluded.
For more details, visit the company’s website or refer to IP’s 2023 Sustainability Report.
