Advancing U.S. Paper and Wood Products Industry Sustainability Performance We work with our members, government agencies, communities, and other stakeholders to employ advanced sustainability practices benefiting the economy, the environment and society, and transparently report on our performance. The Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 sustainability initiative includes the most extensive sets of sustainability goals established for a U.S. manufacturing industry. Our members have surpassed two of the goals ahead of schedule. Our industry seeks to maintain and grow its economic contribution to society, foster the well-being of our communities, and utilize sustainable manufacturing practices and fiber procurement measures that protect the environment and ensure that our resources will be as available for future generations as they are today. The economic health of the U.S. paper and wood products manufacturing industry is vital to its sustainable future. AF&PA advocates for government policies and regulations that allow the industry to remain competitive in order to manufacture products that people use and need. AF&PA believes that market forces should be the primary drivers of sustainability initiatives. Our industry depends on the efficient and wise use of natural resources to make socially beneficial products. AF&PA members adhere to important environmental, health, safety and sustainable forestry and procurement principles. This ensures that our industry fulfills its responsibility to future generations.Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 Sustainability Goals
The Three Pillars of Sustainability
Economic
Environmental
Social
AF&PA members are an integral part of the communities in which they operate, often having provided jobs and taxes there for more than 100 years. They have a variety of programs to promote the well-being of their employees and local communities; over 75 percent of pulp and paper mills are located in counties that are more than 80 percent rural.