The American Forest & Paper Association has issued its 2010 report measuring progress by the forest products industry on key sustainability indicators. The report – Sustainable Practices: a foundation of the forest products industry – shows that despite the severe impact made by the recession, the AF&PA notes that continued investments by its members in efficient processes and equipment, which have led to measurable progress on such sustainability indicators as recycling and air emissions.

Among the reports key findings, are:

• In 2009, 63.4 percent of U.S. paper consumed was recovered – surpassing AF&PA’s 60 percent recovery goal three years ahead of schedule.

• On an absolute basis, both direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions at member pulp and paper and wood products industry facilities have decreased.

• In 2008, 65 percent of the energy needed to operate member pulp and paper mills was produced from renewable fuels.  At wood products facilities, renewable fuels produced 73.5 percent of needed energy.

• Compared to 2006, pulp and paper mill sulfur dioxide releases decreased 14.6 percent and total reduced sulfur releases were reduced 18.6 percent.

• Companies have continued to make investments in new processes and equipment.  Paper mill and allied product company capital expenditures were $7.6 billion in 2006 and $6.3 billion in 2008.

• From 2002 to 2008, forest products exports grew by almost 50 percent, from $18.2 to $27.1 billion

For the full report download the attachment below.