The American Forest & Paper Association announced a series of targets June 15 aimed at making the forest products industry more sustainable.

"Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future" establishes five sustainability goals, according to AF&PA. They are reducing greenhouse gas emissions; advancing a circular value chain through the production of renewable and recyclable products; striving for zero workplace injuries, as well as reducing serious injuries and fatalities; driving water stewardship throughout manufacturing operations and more resilient U.S. forests.

"We have been and will continue to be a leader in sustainability," AF&PA CEO Heidi Brock said in a statement. "The paper and wood products industry was one of the first U.S. manufacturing industries to adopt quantifiable sustainability goals back in 2011, and today these new ambitious goals will build upon that success in the decade ahead."

AF&PA members have met or exceeded many of the sustainability goals, the association said. Those goals include a 23.2% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 13.3% improvement in energy efficiency. The effort also includes a statement of principles on diversity, equity and inclusion.

"Importantly, our strength as an industry stems from the diversity of our people," Brock said. "The paper and wood products industry fosters and promotes a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce by uniting people from different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to work in partnership."

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