Smurfit Kappa, a major player in sustainable packaging solutions, has announced significant progress on its ‘Better Planet 2050’ sustainability goals.
The company said it surpassed four of its midterm targets set for 2025, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
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Exceeding sustainability targets
Smurfit Kappa achieved a 35.8% reduction in landfill waste, exceeding its 2025 target of 30%.
The company also reached 95.5% of packaging sold with Chain of Custody certification, surpassing its 2025 goal of 95%.
Smurfit Kappa’s investment in communities went beyond its €24m ($26.04m) target, reaching €25.6m in donations.
Additionally, the company achieved its goal of 25% minimum female representation in management positions a year early.
These accomplishments are detailed in Smurfit Kappa’s 17th Sustainable Development Report, which emphasises progress driven by investments, operational improvements, and collaboration with partners.
Going beyond the goals
The report showcases additional sustainability milestones beyond just meeting targets.
Smurfit Kappa is an early adopter of the Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), demonstrating its commitment to responsible business practices.
The company is also investing in renewable energy sources through solar panel installations at several facilities.
Waste reduction initiatives include a new €27m waste management facility in Spain.
Water treatment advancements are highlighted with a pioneering purification plant in Serbia.
The report also details progress on a major biomass project in Colombia, aiming to be the company’s largest decarbonisation effort to date.
Committed to sustainability
Tony Smurfit, group CEO, highlighted the company’s pride in exceeding targets and its unwavering commitment to sustainability.
“I am particularly proud that we have already achieved four of our Better Planet 2050 targets. This not only reflects the dedication of our people and the effectiveness of our investment programmes, but it shows our unwavering commitment to supporting our local communities, creating a better planet and delivering a low-carbon, circular future.”
Garrett Quinn, Smurfit Kappa CSO, emphasised the report’s focus on current achievements and future actions to ensure a sustainable future.
“In addition to the performance in 2023, Smurfit Kappa continues to take action now to deliver on a more sustainable future through areas such as: collaborative projects on decarbonisation; the early adoption of the TNFD; and the focus of all our employees on delivering a manufacturing process that is as sustainable as our product.”
Smurfit Kappa’s progress demonstrates its dedication to a low-carbon, circular economy and positions it as a leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
