26th Jan 2021 09:02
(Alliance News) - Paper packaging firm Smurfit Kappa Group PLC on Tuesday unveiled "ambitious" new sustainability targets, in an attempt to lower its environmental footprint.
By 2030, Dublin-headquartered Smurfit has set a new target of 55% intensity reduction in fossil CO2 emissions in its paper and board mill system, which is increased from its previous target of 40%.
On top of this, Smurfit is hoping to reach "at least" net zero fossil emissions by 2050.
By 2025, the firm said over 95% of deliveries will be to customers who are Chain of Custody Certified, up from the current 90% target. The certification, Smurfit said, shows its packages are "sustainably sourced".
"The new targets focus on a further reduction of its environmental footprint, increased support for the communities in which it operates and further enhancement to the lives of its employees," the corrugated packaging company explained.
Smurfit added: "These targets build upon the company's well-established sustainability record, on which it has been reporting since 2005, and are contained in the Better Planet 2050 commitments."
Smurfit also is focused on its waste and water quality, offering an update on its planned reductions by 2025. The firm is targeting a 30% intensity reduction in waste sent to landfill by its paper and board mill system and said it has achieved 7% reduction so far.
Smurfit is targeting a 60% intensity reduction of chemical oxygen demand content of water returned to the environment from its paper and board mill system - and is currently sitting at 35% of its goal.
"As a large processor rather than a large consumer of water, the new target will see the company reduce its overall water intake. As a manufacturer of products that are renewable, recyclable, recycled and biodegradable, the company will continue to seek alternative ways to reuse, recycle and recover waste material to reduce waste to landfill. Last year, Smurfit Kappa set out its most ambitious target to date when it announced a goal to achieve at least net zero CO2 emissions by 2050," it said.
Chief Executive Tony Smurfit said sustainability has always been a part of the company's DNA, but stressed more needs to be done.
"That is why we are setting new, more ambitious short-term targets and longer-term goals. Better Planet 2050 quantifies our commitment to protect what we care about - our planet, our people and our business - through a set of ambitious goals that will drive actions and behaviours that will deliver better outcomes," he said.
Smurift also noted it is targeting a 2% annual increase in females holding management positions until 2024, looking to hit a target of 25% females holding management positions.
Shares in Smurfit Kappa were 1.6% higher in London on Tuesday morning at 3,656.41 pence each.
By Paul McGowan; [email protected]
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