Sustainable Operations

International Paper plays a significant role in responding to the global climate challenge, as reflected in our ambitious commitment to improve our climate impact. We recognize that we have a responsibility to manage our climate-related risks and an opportunity to advance a low-carbon economy in support of decarbonizing the planet. 

Our worldwide operations use renewable natural resources to meet the growing global demand for sustainable fiber products. We are applying the best available science to improve our climate impact and advance water stewardship. Our operations are resource-intensive, so we have a big role to play. And, our goals are ambitious – it will take time. 

Our strategy to achieve our Sustainable Operations goal is to reduce our reliance on fossil fuel, improve energy efficiency and expand our use of renewable energy. We will reduce our operational water use intensity to improve our footprint across our businesses, operations and value chain.

We have created a great foundation from which to continue our progress. Since 2010, we’ve continually reduced fossil fuel use and GHG emissions by reducing our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by more than 20%. Our progress has enabled us to build momentum and develop the forward pathways to achieve our GHG reduction target over the next decade. 

Reducing our Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions by 35% is one of our most ambitious Vision 2030 goals and the most challenging part of our climate strategy. We still have many questions to answer, but we know the direction in which we must head. 

Our GHG emissions reduction target was derived using a methodology approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), a global collaboration of nongovernmental organizations and experts that has defined best practices and a scientifically informed methodology for emissions reductions. Our GHG emissions target is in line with the Paris Climate Agreement goal to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.

For scope 1, our fossil fuel emissions, we are continuing to focus on projects and initiatives that improve energy efficiency and increase biomass usage to produce steam and electricity – this is also part of our scope 2 strategy. The more energy we generate the less we rely on utility provided energy, and we are exploring renewable power initiatives to add renewable energy capacity to the grid. We are building a pathway to our scope 3 targeted reductions using a collaborative approach with our suppliers and customers. 

In all cases, we will benefit from the overall greening of the grid. Many of our suppliers and customers have their own GHG targets, and we support a favorable policy environment for climate change mitigation.

We’re committed to improving our climate impact and advancing water stewardship, because we know that’s what’s needed for a livable world and a thriving society.