As part of its updated Future Fibre Strategy, the paper maker is conducting a Feasibility Study for a large recycled pulp facility, which if goes ahead, would significantly increase the volume of premium recycled paper made in Australia.

Jim Henneberry, CEO of Australian Paper says currently the company’s recycled fibre is sourced from a Victorian supplier, but the feasibility study was begun due to the pending closure of that plant.

He says, “By value-adding locally, we would save large volumes of waste paper being sent to local landfills or shipped overseas. Our study will look at all aspects of demand and production and will be completed by August.”

This Feasibility Study is part of the company’s Future Fibre Strategy, announced last year after extensive consultation with a wide range of stakeholders.

Australian Paper’s Future Fibre Strategy includes increasing the amount of plantation and recycled fibre used by the company as well as sourcing wood from sustainable, certified sources including VicForests.

Henneberry says the company has also made significant progress in its plans to increase the use of plantation fibre. Currently almost two thirds of Australian Paper’s needs are met from plantations and recycled waste.

He adds, “After extensive trials, we have been able to increase our plantation supply yields and have already begun to take significant additional volumes from a new Victorian supplier. We are also looking carefully at the creation of new plantations close to our Maryvale Mill,”

Australian Paper manufactures Reflex, as well as a wide range of recycled and carbon neutral office, envelope, printing and packaging papers. The company directly employs almost 1,400 people across its operations.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter