We practise and promote sustainable forestry to ensure that forestland stays forested for generations to come.
Sustainably managed forests and plantations play a vital role in mitigating climate change and safeguarding biodiversity, two of the biggest challenges of our time. We promote the increased use of certified woodfibre throughout our supply and value chains, and work with credible, internationally recognised, certification systems, which give assurance of the origin of woodfibre and responsible forest management practices.
Forests are the solution
Forests play a key role in addressing critical environmental challenges. By protecting forests and using woodfibre-based products, we’re advancing nature-based solutions to support a healthier planet.
Creating value in forests
30% of Earth’s surface is land, with about one-third covered by forests. However, these forests face growing pressure from agriculture, urban expansion, and infrastructure development. At Sappi, we are committed to preserving forested land to protect biodiversity and combat climate change. By providing a reliable market for responsibly grown fiber, we help landowners maintain and sustainably manage their forests instead of converting them to other uses. This investment ensures healthy, thriving forests for generations to come.
Did you know?
Forest growth
As of 2022, forests cover 39% of the EU's land, with a steady increase since 2000. Finland, Sweden, Slovenia, Estonia, and Latvia have the highest forest coverage, all above 50%. Sweden, Finland, and Spain have the largest forest areas in absolute terms. In the U.S., forests are also growing—gaining about 18 million acres between 1990 and 2020.
Low deforestation
Deforestation in Canada is among the world’s lowest at 0.02% of its forested area. The key causes of deforestation in Canada are not forestry, but rather urbanisation, agriculture and energy developments.
Forest expansion
Each year, U.S. forests grow approximately two times more tree volume than is harvested, with a net average annual increase in growing stock of about 25 billion cubic feet. This increase in forest area is equivalent to more than 13 million NFL football fields (source).
Rural uplift programmes
In South Africa, Sappi has pioneered programmes that uplift rural areas through sustainable forestry without harvesting indigenous trees.
If you're a private grower, Sappi is here to support you. Get our guides to learn best practices and tips of the trade.
Sappi and the SDGs
We’ve set ambitious targets aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the seven areas where we believe Sappi can make the biggest impact.
Responsible forestry protects biodiversity
As a renewable resource company, biodiversity is at the heart of our operations. We’re dedicated to fostering healthy ecosystems in the forests and plantations where we source our woodfibre.
Forests provide habitat to an estimated 80% of terrestrial plant and animal species, making them the most diverse ecosystems on land. Conserving this biodiversity is not just the right thing to do; it’s also foundational to our business, keeping the forests and plantations where we operate healthy and strong.
Our commitment to biodiversity is reflected in the internationally recognised, independent forest certification systems we adhere to, ensuring sustainable practices and the preservation of natural habitats.
Sustainable forestry is not about leaving a forest in its natural state; rather, we continually assess the baseline and implement management plans to prioritise safeguarding the least protected and most important vegetation types. Sappi also has a Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species Programme that has been focusing on cultivating rare indigenous plant species in South Africa since 2014
Sarah Price, Sappi Sustainability Director Europe
Integrated pest and disease management
We’re transitioning to precision pest management, using remote sensing, microclimate data and biological controls for early detection and targeted management of pests and diseases.
Rooting out invaders
One way Sappi Forests prioritises biodiversity conservation is by managing invasive weeds. If left unchecked, they can threaten the health and productivity of forests and waterways.
-Nurturing nature in South Africa
In South Africa where we own and lease land called plantations, we actively manage the natural habitat and biodiversity found there.
- Following best practice for burning, grazing and weed control to ensure healthy habitats
- Ongoing assessment and monitoring of veld condition
- Protecting sites from poaching, illegal medicinal plant collection and overgrazing
- Participating in national stewardship programmes in seven declared nature reserves
- Identifying, monitoring and maintaining 156 Important Conservation Areas (ICAs)
- Long-term integrated weed management plans
Sappi North America's Forest Management Services
Sappi’s Forestry Program helps maximize the value of timber while ensuring the long-term health of forest. Our experienced foresters work closely with local landowners to develop tailored plans that align with their woodland goals.
By partnering with Sappi, local landowners benefit from expert guidance, sustainable management practices, and reliable payments. We identify the best markets for timber and ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Plus, Sappi works with certified and insured contractors to ensure the highest quality service without harm to the environment.
Forest management not only protects land but also accelerates timber growth, leading to healthier trees and fosters biodiversity.
By combining traits from different species, hybrid breeding creates improved trees that are more tolerant to diseases, thrive in various environments, and are more resilient in tomorrow’s ever-changing climate.
Damien Naidu, General Manager of Research, Planning and Nurseries South Africa