Finch Paper Recognized by AF&PA for Its Leadership in Sustainability

The Environmental & Energy Achievement Award is presented annually to AF&PA member companies that contribute significantly to advances in the practical application of new and improved environmental and energy technology.

Finch Paper's “Energy Efficiency Initiative” was implemented at the company's facility in Glens Falls, NY, as a mill-wide energy management system which engaged employees at all levels to transform how they thought and worked with regard to energy use. The project resulted in a 14 percent decrease in the mill's greenhouse gas emissions as well as cost-saving energy reductions without significant capital expense.

“Innovation and sustainable practices are the foundation of our industry,” said AF&PA President & CEO Donna Harman. “Initiatives such as those put forth by Finch Paper show that market-driven approaches can deliver important environmental accomplishments.”

Applications for the Environmental & Energy Achievement Award were reviewed by a panel of judges, which included representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Resources for the Future, and retired industry executives. Entrants were judged on their project's ability to reduce energy use and improve environmental footprints.