Environment

Everything is connected to everything and we see the links in-between.

The awareness of closing gaps

Closed material cycles are the key to climate neutrality. We do our best to recycle as much recovered paper as possible.

We always use recycled fibre wherever possible, playing our part in protecting our forests. If we cannot avoid the use of virgin fibre, we purchase it from FSC®-certified sources. Illegal logging does not occur at any point in our supply chain, and damaging chemicals are not used at any stage.

In terms of logistics, we avoid journeys with empty lorries. We use water in a circular fashion and our paper factories have their own wastewater treatment plants. We collect used packaging from our customers, recycle it and turn it into new packaging.

Our ambition and goals

As little packaging as possible

But as much as necessary. Unlike other materials such as plastic, our board and corrugated card mean that goods can be wrapped in eco-friendly packaging.

There is no doubt that the manufacture of cardboard is a high-energy and water-intensive process.

We handle resources carefully and efficiently – and not just in terms of energy, the climate, waste, and water. We investigate issues such as deforestation, soil erosion, and illegal logging when procuring raw materials.

«By 2030, we will have reduced our resource consumption per tonne of paper, corrugated board, and cardboard produced by 10 percent.»

By 2030, we will have reduced our resource consumption per tonne of paper, corrugated card, and cardboard produced by 10%.

SBTi targets:

Scope 1 and 2 GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions from paper mills reduced by 22.9 % per ton of paper produced by 2030 from a 2017 base year.*
Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from packaging activity reduced by 32.5 % by 2030 from a 2017 base year.*
Scope 3 GHG emissions reduced by 26 % per ton of paper and board produced by 2030 from a 2017 base year.*

*The target boundary includes biogenic emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks

To reach these goals, we will optimize our fibre recovery process, improve our logistics and introduce new technology along the value chain.

Our actions

Highest efficiency

In Weinfelden (CH), paper machines PM1 and PM2 underwent a complete drive renewal. Using IE4 efficiency motors and low-loss gearboxes, substantial energy savings were achieved.

With peak efficiency, PM1 saves 350 MWh/a and PM2 saves 900 MWh/a, equivalent to the annual electricity use of 250 households.

New vehicle fleet and a premium system

Model Logistics in Germany revamped its fleet during 2019-2021.

In 2019, 63 vehicles were replaced, followed by 45 in 2020, and the final 10 in 2021 with efficient Scania and MAN models.

The Roadlox software, introduced alongside the launch of a new bonus system, assessed driver behavior. This combination helped reduce average fuel consumption from 24.07 to 22.93 l/100km, resulting in a yearly saving of about 142,500 liters of diesel over 12.5 million km.

Heat recuperation

In 2021, Model Obaly in Hostinné harnessed waste heat from three compressors generating about 70°C during air production for heating.

A connected distribution system efficiently channels heat throughout the facility, with savings. A CHF 25,000 investment led to CHF 27,000 saved in early 2022. The annual savings are projected at 400 MWh or CHF 45,000.

Shortened transport routes

In November 2021, Nowa Sól welcomed a new corrugator, a great accomplishment completed on time.

This modern, high-performance machine ensures top-quality corrugated sheets. With it, we avoid transporting five million m2 of sheets monthly from Czosnów to Nowa Sól, saving time, costs, and cutting CO₂ emissions. This expansion sets the stage for Model's continued growth in Poland.

We prefer used goods

Given the inherent resource intensity of our products, we prioritize recycling and energy-efficient production for both environmental and economic reasons.

Environmental considerations begin during product development, minimizing negative impacts. Our logistics continuously improve through route planning, innovations, and waste return trips.

We purify wastewater, utilize recycled fiber, and procure certified virgin fiber as needed.