Metsä Board Americas

During Metsä Board Americas press trip to Finland, Dieline reporter, Chloe Gordon did her own brand safari in a local grocery store. Her round-up of packaging includes her observations on the heavy use of pink on the shelves as well as the reliance on simple, sans-serif typefaces. Noting the proliferation of licorice packages that reflect Finland’s love of this candy (mostly in plastic bags), we gave her a sneak peek at the new resealable paperboard cup for licorice. Metsä Board partnered with Finnish confectionery maker Kouvolan Lakritsi to create this new package made of fresh fiber paperboard. “We had long been thinking about an alternative to the plastic pouch for licorice packaging,” said Timo Nisula, Managing Director at Kouvolan Lakritsi. “The new cup can also be reused for coffee with a slight hint of licorice flavor.” "Collaborating with our customers is vital in developing paperboard innovations that address their specific needs," said Ilkka Harju, Packaging Services Director at Metsä Board. “By working closely with Kouvolan Lakritsi, we designed a new paperboard solution that aligns with the company’s renowned brand and offers a functional, innovative design." Read more about Chloe’s Finland adventure here: https://lnkd.in/e32E-mGW #presstour2024 #packaginginnovation #sustainablepackaging #paperboard

Thanks Anne Marie Mohan for joining us!

Metsä Board is looking forward to seeing you at PACK EXPO International show in Chicago! Join us from November 3-6, 2024 at Booth W-22047 to get a firsthand look at our lightweight, premium fresh fiber paperboards, discover our innovative circular packaging solutions, and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of packaging. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect, collaborate, and explore solutions that are shaping the future of our industry. Let’s connect and drive the future of packaging together. See you in Chicago! 🌍✨ #PackExpo #PackagingInnovation #Networking #IndustryLeaders#SustainablePackaging

On the second day of Metsä Board Americas’ press tour in Finland, journalists were granted exclusive access to the Äänekoski bioeconomy ecosystem featuring the state-of-the art paperboard mill. This is where fully coated bleached paperboards are made for high performance packaging and graphical end uses such as chocolate and confectionery, food, pharma and healthcare, beauty care, wine and spirits, consumer electronics and various graphic applications. Once protective gear was donned, the mill tour was led by Timo Tallinen, VP Metsa Board Äänekoski Mill. The next stop was the Excellence Center, where R&D meets innovation to shape the future of sustainable packaging. Info and demonstrations were conducted by the team comprised of Gunilla Nykopp, Customer Experience Manager, Marko Leiviskä, Graphic Packaging Designer, Iiro Numminen, Structural Packaging Designer and Joni Myyryläinen, Mechanical Design Engineer. The Excellence Center combines a packaging design studio with an R&D laboratory and customer feedback center where joint development of new materials and packaging solutions come together with customers and partners. Throughout the press tour, journalists were informed of Metsä Board’s main sustainability targets: - 90% of total energy consumption is already fossil-free - Fossil-free mills by the end of 2030 with zero fossil CO2 emissions, both from own energy production (scope 1) and all purchased energy (scope 2) - Fossil-free products by the end of 2030 - 35% reduction in process water use per product ton and at least 10% improvement in energy efficiency by the end of 2030 - At least 90% share of certified wood out of all sourced wood raw material Our products and services, along with R&D contribute to more sustainable packaging through lightweighting, new barrier solutions, and smart packaging design. #presstour2024 #sustainablepackaging #circulareconomy #paperboard 

Fact: Metsä Group delivers 30 – 40 million seedlings per year. Recently, Metsä Board Americas hosted a group of U.S. and Canadian journalists to see how sustainable packaging solutions are created from the forest to the shelf. The first stop was Metsä’s Nemus Futurum visitor center in the forests of Kirkniemi in the Lohja area where Maija Pohjakallio, VP, Climate and Circular Economy told how Metsä Group reduces the dependency on fossil-based materials and supports the circular economy. Leading Nature Expert Timo Lehesvirta explained how we are embracing regenerative forestry. Regenerative forestry aims to measurably strengthen the state of forest nature. Its principles guide measures to improve forest biodiversity, such as diversity of trees and improving the living conditions of different species in forests. In addition, it takes into account nature benefits or so-called ecosystem services, for example, recreational use, clean water, pollinators, berries and mushrooms. A tour of the forest (Metsä Group’s parent company is owned by over 90,000 Finnish forest owners) allowed the journalists to see: 1.     How safeguarding biodiversity is established with mixed forests of pine, birch and spruce while increasing decaying wood by leaving retention trees, high biodiversity stumps, , and existing decaying trees on the ground in place. Protective thickets are left next to waterways. 2.     How seeding practices include planting 4 new trees for every one felled. (Thinning is done when trees have grown somewhat to give more space to the best trees to grow bigger) Metsä Group is committed to the principles of regenerative forestry aiming for verified results by 2030. We want to leave our forests to next generation more vibrant and diverse than we got them ourselves. #regenerativeforestry #circulareconomy #presstour2024 #paperboard #sustainablepackaging

Today, many across the Americas observe Columbus Day, commemorating Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States and many view it as a celebration of exploration and the cultural exchange that followed Columbus's voyages. But a growing number of states, cities, and communities are choosing to recognize this date as Indigenous Peoples' Day instead. The idea for an Indigenous Peoples' Day was first proposed in 1977 at a United Nations conference on discrimination against indigenous populations in the Americas. But it wasn’t until 2021 that U.S. President Joe Biden officially proclaimed Indigenous Peoples' Day, giving it national recognition alongside Columbus Day. This alternative observance honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native American peoples. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day alongside Columbus Day is crucial for several reasons: 1.    It acknowledges the complex history of the Americas, including both the Age of Exploration and its consequences for native populations. 2.    It provides an opportunity for education and reflection on the often-overlooked perspectives and experiences of indigenous peoples. 3.    It promotes cultural understanding and reconciliation by encouraging dialogue about our shared history. As we move forward, it's important to approach this day with empathy, openness to learning, and a commitment to building a more inclusive society that honors all parts of our diverse heritage. What are your thoughts on this dual commemoration? How does your community approach this day? Share your perspectives in the comments below. #ColumbusDay #IndigenousPeoplesDay #CulturalAwareness #InclusiveHistory

Today I had the pleasure of joining @Metsä Group in Finland for a fascinating overview of its circular economy strategy—a comprehensive approach that includes a focus on both the industrial ecosystem as well as on regenerative forestry practices. On the production side, Maija Pohjakallio, VP, Climate and Circular Economy for Metsä Group, shared how the company’s Äänekoski board mill is using side streams for producrts other than bleached folding boxboard. Among them, the company is capturing sulfur from its processes and converting it to sulfuric acid, while lime is put to use as fertilizer. The bark and black liquor generated during the pulp production process are a significant source of renewable energy for Metsä’s own production processes as well as for communities in the vicinity of its mills. Renewable energy generated from wood-based fractions accounts for about a half of Metsä Board’s total energy consumption. The company is also experimenting with capturing wood-based carbon as a new source for sustainable carbon. Pohjakallio noted that the company is hoping for a pilot by 2025. Metsä has invested nearly 8 billion Euros in its infrastructure since 2016 in its effort to move toward a circular economy. As Pohjakallio shared, “When the mills are updated, they are more efficient,” therefore lowering their carbon footprint. By 2030, it has committed to reaching zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. On the forestry side, Metsä is embracing regenerative forestry to mitigate the impact of climate change by supporting biodiversity. According to biologist and Metsä Group Leading Nature Expert Timo Lehesvirta, biodiversity is secured through establishing mixed forests of pine and spruce and by leaving retention trees, high biodiversity stumps, protective thickets, and existing decaying trees in forest areas. At Metsä’s Nemus Futurum (New Forest) forest visitor center in the forests of Kirkniemi in the Lohja area, a Metsä guide provided a tour (pictured) that demonstrated the importance of the company’s seeding and thinning practices as well as its mixed-forest strategy. #circulareconomy #forestry #sustainableforestry #regenerativeforestry #paperpackaging #biodiversity #reforestation

National Vodka Day has been celebrated on October 4 since 2009. According to its website, “The versatile, once virtually tasteless and odorless tipple accounts for almost 20 to 25 percent of spirits sold today in North America, making it our most popular libation, a feat that occurred in the 1970s when it outpaced bourbon as America’s favorite spirit.  And while it used to be considered a flavorless choice, today there are countless flavors today, everything from salmon to marshmallow.” The vodka industry, like many others, is actively seeking eco-friendly solutions to reduce its environmental footprint. Recently, Metsä Board created a light but strong, easily recyclable packaging for the new Chopin Organic Rye Vodka range at its Excellence Center in Äänekoski, Finland. According to Joanna Dolińczyk, Marketing Coordinator, Chopin Vodka brand explains, “When we were looking for inspiration for the packaging design of our organic product, we wanted to ensure that the packaging reflects its organic production process. Our vision was to create a truly organic and highly ecological packaging included three main goals: purity, whiteness and simplicity.” The packaging is manufactured using a protective F-flute, with all layers made of lightweight MetsäBoard Natural WKL Bright white kraftliner. Its fresh fibers are 100% traceable to sustainably managed Northern European forests. The all-white litho-laminated packaging has a light and robust structure based on locking flaps that require no glue. No adhesive, combined with minimal coverage of low migration inks with water-based varnishing, resulted in a package that is safe, stylish and easy to recycle. What are you doing to celebrate National Vodka Day? Tell us in the comments below. #Nationalvodkaday #sustainability #sustainablepackaging

As the leaves change color and pumpkin spice lattes make their annual comeback, October brings more than just autumn vibes. October's unique blend of goal setting, networking, and strategic planning makes it an especially opportune time to launch your next career chapter. Here's a few reasons why starting a job in October can give you an edge: 1.    Many companies finalize their Q4 goals in October. Joining now means you can align your objectives with the company's vision from day one. 2.    With performance reviews often happening at year's end, starting in October gives you a solid 3 months to make an impact before your first evaluation. 3.    The upcoming holiday season offers natural opportunities to connect with colleagues in a more relaxed setting. 4.    Many organizations roll out training programs in Q4, so it’s the perfect timing for you to skill up. 5.    The fall season often brings a steadier work pace compared to the summer rush, allowing for smoother onboarding experiences. 6.    As companies gear up for the new year, your fresh ideas and energy can be invaluable in shaping strategies for the coming months. 7.    Jumping into year-end initiatives gives you immediate exposure to critical work and a chance to prove yourself quickly. We’re giving a special shoutout to our Metsä Board America’s team members who are celebrating work anniversaries this month: Steve France, Sales Development Manager – 27 years Eileen Green, VP, Finance & Administration – 6 years Joseph DePalma, Sales Manager, WKL – 4 years Robert Medori, Supply Chain Specialist – 2 years Juliana Garces, Credit Controller – 1 year We thank you for your contributions and the crucial role you play in our mission of providing premium fresh fiber paperboards from sustainably managed Finnish forests. #workanniversary #peopleofmetsaboard #peoplefirst

Did you know that, according to the National Coffee Association, Americans consume about 517 million cups of coffee each day? September 29 is National Coffee Day and has its roots in the coffee-producing countries of Central and South America. It began as a way to promote fair trade practices and celebrate the cultural significance of coffee. Today, it's celebrated worldwide, with each country putting its own spin on the festivities. As we enjoy our favorite brews, it's crucial to consider the environmental impact of coffee production and packaging. Here examples of sustainable coffee packaging: 1.     Paperboard packaging is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging 2. Compostable coffee pods are made from plant-based materials that break down completely in industrial composting facilities. These pods provide the convenience of single-serve coffee without the plastic waste. 3. Reusable coffee bags made from recyclable materials. Many places are also offering special deals to celebrate National Coffee Day. Here are some promotions to look out for (note: offers may vary by location and are subject to change): Starbucks: Rewards members can get a free hot or iced coffee with any purchase. Dunkin': DD Perks members can get a free medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase. Krispy Kreme: Rewards members can get a free coffee of any size, no purchase necessary. Panera Bread: MyPanera members can get unlimited free coffee all day. Peet's Coffee: 25% off all coffee beans, in-store and online. 7-Eleven: 7Rewards members can get a free coffee of any size with the purchase of a baked good. Remember to check with your local coffee shops too, as many independent cafes offer their own special promotions on this day. What sustainable coffee practices have you noticed or adopted? #NationalCoffeeDay #SustainableCoffee #EcoFriendlyPackaging #CoffeeDeals