Consumables

Boise Inc. and South Coast Paper Launch ASPEN(R) Diverse Earth(TM)

Friday 17. October 2008 - Industry leaders offer unique office paper solution to meet customer sustainability goals

Boise Inc. (NYSE: BZ), a leading manufacturer of recycled paper, and South Coast Paper, a major converter of paper products, announce the introduction of ASPEN(R) Diverse Earth(TM) premium recycled office paper, a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC(TM)) certified product line.

This distinctive product offering helps companies employ sustainable business practices, including making choices that are sensitive to the environment, society, and their own economic well-being. Recognizing the vital connection between these three sustainability pillars, Boise Inc. and South Coast Paper have collaborated on a product line that offers the exceptional performance customers expect from premium office paper, combined with a practical solution to meet their environmental and supplier diversity goals.

“Together, Boise Inc. and South Coast Paper believe we have a winning proposition for customers who place a high value on the environmental and social aspects of sustainability,” said Terry Stepney, Boise brand manager. “ASPEN Diverse Earth combines the strengths of both organizations into a single brand that provides a two-pronged solution.”

ASPEN Diverse Earth-brand is an MBE-certified premium recycled office paper, available in 30%, 50% and 100% post-consumer content. It offers the same hardworking characteristics and brightness as non-recycled paper but requires less water, energy and chemicals and fewer trees in the manufacturing process.

The product’s MBE certification allows customers to meet supplier diversity commitments for office paper purchases and to demonstrate their support for and use of a broad supplier base.

All grades of ASPEN Diverse Earth are FSC Chain of Custody certified. Chain of Custody certification enables consumers to make informed and environmentally responsible choices when selecting wood and other forest products.

“ASPEN Diverse Earth is truly a ground-breaking product that will reshape what customers expect from the paper industry for their office procurement needs,” said Kenneth Loyd, president of South Coast Paper. “Until now, corporate customers have not had a choice of paper that delivers on such a wide array of sustainability elements.”