Packaging
Exopack, LLC Receives Fiber Sourcing Certification from The Sustainable Forestry Initiative
Friday 08. April 2011 - Exopack, LLC, one of top 10 flexible packaging companies in North America, has completed the certification audit and received fiber sourcing certification to the Section 4 of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) standard 2010-2014 for its multi-wall bag facilities in Hanford, CA; Hazleton, PA; Seymour, IN; Sibley, IA; Spartanburg, SC; and Tifton, GA.
“Our customers and consumers in general are becoming very aware of their role in ensuring a sustainable future. Exopack believes in the principles of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and intends to use the certification to educate consumers about the benefits of using renewable materials in packaging.”
Fiber sourcing certification indicates a company maintains a formal tracking system to record the possession and transfer of kraft papers from its origin as wood to its end use in multi-wall bags. SFI certification validates Exopacks sustainable fiber sourcing practices and is a key component of its overall commitment to sustainability.
“We believe that sustainable forestry is very important to the fiber-based packaging industry,” said Tom Vale, Exopacks President and CFO. “Our customers and consumers in general are becoming very aware of their role in ensuring a sustainable future. Exopack believes in the principles of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and intends to use the certification to educate consumers about the benefits of using renewable materials in packaging.”
To achieve certification to the SFI standard, applicants must be able to show that the majority of fiber used in the production of their product comes from Responsible Sources that are certified to the SFI standard. They must also work to ensure that Controversial Sources are not used. Specific procedures must be implemented so the flow of fiber through the manufacturing process is properly tracked and recorded. Regular internal audits, management reviews and annual audits, conducted by an independent organization, are all part of the requirements to maintain certification.