WWF teams up with packaging giant on green project

WWF International and Mondi Group have announced today (20 February) that they will work together in a three-year strategic partnership that focuses on increasing environmental stewardship in the packaging and paper sectors.


The partnership links one of the largest packaging, pulp and paper producers in the world with the one of the world’s largest conservation organisation.

The collaboration will focus on minimising the impacts of Mondi’s operations on forests, climate and water, and encouraging sustainable practices in the industry.

The work programme will cover three main areas –

·Ecosystem Stewardship – building on the successful Mondi Wetlands Programme in South Africa, this work will focus on protecting high conservation value ecosystems in Russia and other regions and increasing the value and resilience of multi-functional production landscapes in South Africa.

·Manufacturing Stewardship -further reducing the water and climate footprint of Mondi’s operations and promoting resource efficiency, recycling and longevity of products, including the cascading use of wood and forest products where appropriate.

·Product Stewardship – further enhancing the environmental performance of Mondi’s products through; among others – credible certification and efficient life-cycle use of materials in their paper and packaging products.

WWF International director general Jim Leape said: “As population grows and competition for land increases, forest-based industries that rely on renewable resources can play an important role in protecting and managing vital ecosystems.

“Companies like Mondi that choose to contribute to sustainable resource use and nature conservation are ensuring their own long-term viability, while contributing to the well-being of people and the planet today.”

Mondi chief executive David Hathorn added: “Mondi and WWF have a successful association working together on projects.

“This international partnership enables us to join forces on a larger scale. Sustainable development is integral to our business, and we are very pleased to be working with WWF as we continue to reduce our footprint and share responsible practices across our industry and beyond.”

Liz Gyekye

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