Bettering the planet

Energy

Energy is critical to WestRock’s operations and sustainability efforts. As we focus on reducing GHG emissions, we must also optimize costs, energy efficiency and fuel reliability. Today, this mandate requires us to use a variety of fuels. Our internal energy group works closely with our manufacturing sites to pursue our energy-related goals, and we map energy use throughout our mill system. 

Waste, Recycling and Circularity

WestRock is one of the largest recyclers in North America. Every year we recover millions of tons of old corrugated containers (OCC) and other grades of paper. We use paper in our own business and sell recovered fiber to third parties, helping facilitate recycling beyond our company.
 
WestRock is uniquely able to assist our customers in achieving their own goals relating to the circular economy. Our portfolio of paper-based solutions includes recyclable, reusable and compostable packaging designs, as well as alternatives that can replace traditional single-use and other plastic packaging. Our advanced machinery technology, coupled with our innovative paper-based packaging designs, can help customers improve production-line performance and reduce waste by right-sizing packaging and minimizing excess material.

 

Responsible sourcing

Maintaining a stable, sustainable supply chain is vital to WestRock’s success. We require our suppliers to adhere to high standards of business conduct, labor rights, environmental compliance, quality and service, and to comply with applicable laws, legal requirements and regulations of the countries where they do business. Our corporate Procurement and Sustainability teams ensure our procurement practices align with WestRock’s sustainability goals.

Sustainable forestry and biodiversity

Like recycling, sustainable forestry is fundamental and essential to circularity at WestRock. Wood fiber is a renewable material; by practicing and promoting sustainable forestry, WestRock helps ensure a future supply of virgin fiber while supporting a host of environmental and social benefits. Wood fiber used in packaging can be recycled between five and seven times. As fiber completes its recyclable lifespan, it must be replaced by virgin fiber. Sustainably managed forests provide that fiber.

Forests are essential to biodiversity, act as natural filters for fresh water, sequester carbon and improve air quality. We support private landowners who practice responsible land management, integrating the growing and harvesting of trees with the protection and conservation of soil, air and water quality; biological diversity; wildlife and aquatic habitats; forests with high conservation value; and recreational and aesthetic properties.

Water stewardship

The papermaking process is water-intensive and requires access to a consistent supply of clean water. To advance our sustainability commitments and meet environmental compliance requirements, we are focused on making sure the water we use is suitable to return to the environment.

We plan to continue looking for alternative sources of water, investigating options for increasing water recycling and efficiency and using a risk-based approach to managing the amount of water we use in strategic locations.