Smurfit Westrock Earns Prestigious 2025 Portafolio Award for Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative
Paper Recycling | 2025-11-26 11:29:02
Considered as the ‘Oscars’ of Colombian business, the awards recognize excellence, innovation, and social responsibility among companies and leaders.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Smurfit Westrock, a leading global producer of corrugated and paper-based packaging, has been awarded the 2025 Portafolio Award for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in recognition of its long-standing “A Cauca of Opportunities” initiative.
The community development program, which has been active for more than 40 years, has played a transformational role in boosting economic, educational and social progress across both rural and urban areas in Colombia’s Cauca department. According to the company’s announcement, the initiative impacted 2,848 individuals in 2024 alone and helped create 876 new jobs in municipalities such as Popayán, Timbío, Cajibío, Suárez, El Tambo, and Sotará.
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Over the course of its operation, the program has delivered measurable results, including:
1,145 students graduating from Agricultural and Forestry Technical Institutes (ITAF)
Support for 865 rural entrepreneurs
Protection of 382 hectares of native forest areas
Strengthening of 113 rural aqueduct systems
The Portafolio Awards, organized by the prominent Colombian media group Casa Editorial El Tiempo, are regarded as one of the country’s highest business honors—often described as the “Oscars” of the corporate sector. The awards celebrate outstanding achievements in innovation, sustainability and social commitment by companies and business leaders.
Speaking on the achievement, Germán Gambini, CEO of Smurfit Westrock for the Central Cluster, said the recognition reinforces the company’s commitment to advancing meaningful partnerships and expanding opportunities in local communities.
“This award inspires us to continue building alliances that generate real opportunities within our territories,” Gambini said.
POLL
Do you believe corporate social responsibility programs like “A Cauca of Opportunities” have a significant impact on community development?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the “A Cauca of Opportunities” program?
It is a long-running community development initiative focused on improving education, employment, entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability in Colombia’s Cauca region.
- How long has the program been operating?
The initiative has been running for over 40 years, supporting both rural and urban communities.
- What measurable impact has the program delivered?
In 2024, it benefited 2,848 people, created 876 jobs, supported 865 rural entrepreneurs, helped 1,145 students graduate, protected 382 hectares of forest, and strengthened 113 aqueduct systems.
