Smurfit Kappa Unveils Fresh Set of Sustainability Goals, Extending its 2020 Targets

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): European packaging major Smurfit Kappa reported significant progress in its journey towards sustainability, says the latest Sustainable Development Report (SDR) published by the company. It achieved several key milestones throughout the year. In addition, the company has unveiled a new set of ambitious sustainability goals through its Better Planet Packaging Initiative, highlighting its commitment to circular business model.

Smurfit Kappa reached most of its long-term sustainability targets at the end of 2017, years ahead of schedule. Consequently, it renewed the targets during the previous year, in alignment with the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals. The company continued to see significant progress in the five strategic sustainability areas-Forest, Climate Change, Water, Waste and People. For instance, it reduced fossil carbon dioxide emissions by 29% in comparison with the baseline year of 2005.

Looking ahead, the company aims to reach the ultimate goal of becoming a fully sustainable and circular business. As part of this attempt, it has extended its 2020 targets with a new set of long-term sustainability targets. It targets 40% reduction in fossil fuel emissions intensity by 2030, 60% reduction in chemical oxygen demand intensity by 2025 and 30% less waste to landfill by 2025. In addition, it aims to continuously maintain 5% reduction in lost time and injury rates annually. Further, it targets to ensure that 90% of its packaging solutions sold to customers are Chain of Custody certified.