Oji Fibre Solutions (OjiFS), one of Australasia’s leading producers of pulp, paper and fibre-based packaging, has released its latest Sustainability Report.
OjiFS is a major exporter through the Port of Tauranga, which recently renewed its 10-year operating agreement with the company.
The report is focused on how the company it is optimising operations for a more sustainable future in the circular economy.
Recently, $63 million was invested in transforming the Tasman Mill; increasing production of unbleached speciality pulp products to safe-guard the future of the mill and deliver safety and environmental benefits, including significant greenhouse gas reductions.
OjiFS is set to complement this with Project Waikato, another large-scale initiative to improve and future-proof wastewater treatment systems at its Kinleith Mill.
OjiFS chief executive, Dr Jon Ryder, said:“Both of these projects signal our owners’ support to invest in operations in the region, which allows us to continue to create long-term value and have a positive impact on the future of the company, the environment and our communities.”
“These projects signal our owners’ support to invest in operations in the region, which allows us to continue to create long-term value and have a positive impact on the future of the company, the environment and our communities.”
– Dr Jon Ryder
Other Sustainability Report highlights are expanded operations in Australia, including a new state-of-the-art packaging facility in Yatala, and additional distribution centres on the East Coast, set to support growth in the horticultural and agricultural sectors in Australia.
This is the fourth Sustainability Report since Oji Holdings Corporation purchased the business in 2014.
The report notes that competitive pressure across the pulp, paper and fibre packaging industry globally have intensified following changes to China’s domestic waste management policy and volatility in trade terms between China and the US.
Despite the challenges, the company is optimistic about future opportunities for cellulose-based products.
Natural renewable products that are low in carbon are growing in favour at a time when consumers are increasing their scrutiny of raw material inputs and seeking sustainable packaging solutions, says OjiFS.
