Innovations in the Paper Industry
Paper products are essential to everyday life. Innovations, advancements in technology, partnerships across the value chain and cutting-edge solutions are shaping the future of this vital sector.
AF&PA members’ programs and initiatives help drive investment and create opportunities in American manufacturing.
Manufacturing Innovations
Domtar Makes a Splash with Water Conservation
Through Domtar’s Water Reduction Fund, mills were tasked with creating projects that prioritized saving water, rather than a financial return. In 2023, their mills completed 10 projects that saved more than 1 billion gallons of water annually.
Greenhouse Gas Reduction - Green Bay Mill Project
Green Bay Packaging rebuilt their Green Bay mill with innovative energy efficient features that support the sustainable business model of the company. Through this project, they reduced their energy used by 11%, which is about a 35% reduction in GHG emissions per ton of paper produced.
International Paper and The NFWF's Forestland Stewards Partnership
International Paper and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) teamed up to strengthen conservation efforts on working forestlands. They enhance wildlife habitats, conserve and restore forestland, and educate landowners.
Sappi North America’s Wastewater Reduction at Cloquet Mill
Ongoing efforts and innovative manufacturing processes implemented at Sappi’s Cloquet Mill contributed to an overall reduction in the amount of and improvement in the quality of wastewater being returned to the environment.
Product Innovations
Sonoco's EnviroFlex Paper ULT 2.0
Sonoco's EnviroFlex Paper ULT 2.0 is a curbside recyclable, flexible packaging. It can be used in various packaging formats and is made without the use of forever chemicals.
Clearwater Paper's Future is Fiber
Clearwater’s Future is Fiber Initiative highlights their efforts to take care of the environment, support the next generation, and respond to demands for more sustainable packaging innovations.
Seaman Paper's Vela™ Bags
Made from paper, Vela bags replace single use polybags. They’re transparent, weather resistant and curbside recyclable.
Ahlstrom's PawPrint® Packaging
This pet food paper packaging is a non-PFAS, grease resistant, and fully recyclable solution.
Workplace Innovations
DS Smith Packaging North America Lebanon Indiana Interpreters Program
DS Smith created an interpreters program at their Lebanon, Indiana location that provides life-changing opportunities for their employees.
Georgia-Pacific’s Save My Life Digital Work Process
Save My Life is a digital platform that was built by and for frontline employees. This system uses technology to provide a guided framework to ensure workers have the best information and control measures to prevent serious injuries and fatalities.