Sustainability in Packaging 

To discuss the ecological issues and the merits of fibre-based packaging, we have launched a special site at www.storaenso.com/ sustainablepackaging.

To summarise, sustainability in packaging means solutions that satisfy current needs in an optimal manner without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Wood, a renewable and recyclable resource, is the main raw material in our packaging boards. Fibre-based packages are well-positioned to mitigate climate change since they act as carbon sinks during their entire lifecycle. Growing forests store carbon effectively. Carbon sequestration no longer takes place once the trees are fully grown. When wood is harvested and converted into products, carbon remains bound in the products throughout their lifecycle. 

Stora Enso applies the principles of environmental and social responsibility in sustainable forest management, wood procurement operations and in board production. Our paperboard is produced at integrated pulp and paper mills with third-party-verified management systems in place for quality as well as environmental operations. The primary source of energy for the production process is bio-fuels which are derived from residuals from pulping, forest operations or water purification processes.

Versatile and lightweight paperboard packages prevent product loss by effectively protecting packed materials against physical damage, contamination and light. Product information can be printed directly onto the surface of the board, so no extra labels are needed. Space-saving designs are economical in transportation. Efficient logistics mean less use of fuel and therefore a direct reduction in the environmental impacts of transportation such as emissions and noise.

Paperboard packaging is a valuable resource in itself, with many potential applications. Packages can be recycled three to five times into different products, and at the end of their lifecycle, the products can be incinerated and used as carbon-neutral fuel, replacing fossil fuels.