Sonoco (NYSE:SON), one of the largest global diversified packaging companies, has expanded its fiber certification program into Brazil and Mexico, as of mid-February 2016. Although most of the raw material used in our mills is 100 percent recycled fiber, this certification also requires that Sonoco select suppliers of virgin fiber and virgin fiber components that avoid trading or sourcing raw material that is: a) illegally harvested, b) harvested in violation of traditional and civil rights and c) harvested where global conservation priorities are threatened.

“Fiber certification is a demonstration of Sonoco’s commitment to recycling, healthy forests and responsible resource management,” said Laura Rowell, global sustainable packaging manager.

In Brazil, Sonoco’s paper mill in Londrina and rigid paper converting operation in Araras were both chain-of-custody certified to the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes (PEFC).  In Mexico, its Atizapan paper mill and Mexico City rigid paper converting operation were also chain-of-custody certified to the FSC and PEFC, plus the North American-based Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).

These operations join the company’s 12 previously certified paper mills and four previously certified converting operations located in the U.S., Canada and Europe. 

As the leader in high-quality, innovative, value-creating packaging solutions that “Satisfy the Customer,” Sonoco is prepared to help its global brand customers meet their sustainability goals related to deforestation and responsible sourcing. For more information about its sustainability targets and programming, visit www.sonoco.com/sustainability.

About Sonoco
Founded in 1899, Sonoco is a global provider of a variety of consumer packaging, industrial products, protective packaging, and displays and packaging supply chain services. With annualized net sales of approximately $5.0 billion, the Company has 21,000 employees working in more than 330 operations in 34 countries, serving some of the world’s best known brands in some 85 nations. Sonoco is a proud member of the 2015/2016 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index. For more information on the Company, visit our website at www.sonoco.com.

Contact:  Hilary Culbertson
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