Grace Asia Pulp and Paper (APP) is a global company that produces, distributes, and markets pulp, paper, and packaging products. Founded in 1972 by Eka Tjipta Widjaja, APP is one of the world’s largest pulp and paper companies with operations across Asia. With its headquarters in Singapore, APP supplies over 6 million tons of pulp and paper products annually to consumers around the world. APP has gained notoriety for their sustainability initiatives such as their Forest Conservation Policy that was launched in 2013 which has helped to protect over 2 million hectares of natural forest land throughout Indonesia as well as their commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its supply chain by 2020. Additionally, they are committed to responsible sourcing from legal suppliers who are certified under the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) program.
History of Asia Pulp and Paper
Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) is one of the world’s largest pulp and paper companies. The company has a complex history with a blend of success, controversy, and environmental concerns. Founded in 1972, APP started as a small pulp mill in Indonesia and grew into a colossal conglomerate over the years. The company expanded rapidly during the 1980s and 1990s, gaining prominence as a major player in the global pulp and paper industry. Asia Pulp and Paper growth was primarily attributed to its production capabilities, economic success, and innovative approach to meeting the growing demands for paper products.
However, APP has been at the centre of numerous controversies, particularly regarding deforestation and environmental degradation. The company faced accusations of unsustainable logging practices, including the clearing of natural forests, particularly in Indonesia. Environmental organizations and watchdogs accused APP of contributing to deforestation, habitat destruction, and threatening endangered species due to its logging activities, which drew international attention and sparked protests and campaigns against the company.
The years between the late 2000s and early 2010s marked a significant period for APP. The company faced intense pressure from environmental groups, governments, and consumers due to its alleged unsustainable practices. APP pledged to adopt more sustainable approaches, committing to zero deforestation, conservation of high conservation value (HCV) forests, and support for forest restoration efforts.
The company formulated and publicized a Forest Conservation Policy in 2013 to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability, promising to cease clearing natural forests for its pulp mills. APP also became a member of various sustainability initiatives and certifications to improve its environmental credentials.
Nevertheless, despite these commitments and changes, APP continued to face scepticism from environmentalists, who claimed that the company’s practices did not entirely align with its commitments, leading to ongoing debates and scrutiny.
APP remains a major player in the global pulp and paper industry. The company’s history reflects a mix of significant growth in the industry, coupled with intense scrutiny and criticism related to its environmental impact and sustainability practices. The ongoing challenge for APP lies in balancing its industrial growth with environmentally responsible practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Asia Pulp and Paper is a leading global producer of pulp and paper products. They have been in business for over 40 years, have more than 100 production facilities across the globe, and are committed to sustainability by using renewable resources and reducing their carbon footprint. With their commitment to quality products, efficient operations, environmental stewardship, and reliable customer service, Asia Pulp and Paper is well-positioned to remain a leader in the pulp and paper industry for years to come.
