Business News
UPM JOINS THE BALTIC SEA ACTION SUMMIT WITH INNOVATIVE RESEARCH PROJECT AIMING AT PROTECTING THE BALTIC SEA
Tuesday 09. February 2010 - UPM is committed to an innovative research partnership as part of the Baltic Sea Action Summit. The project involves the use of charcoal mixed with soil to remove impurities from nutrient-rich water running from agricultural lands into the Baltic Sea.
“UPM’s corporate responsibility defines minimal waste to landfill and efficient re-use as well as sustainable use of water resources as key responsibility areas. Finding new and innovative solutions to use industry’s side products and at the same time finding new ways to safeguard the Baltic Sea is very much in line with our responsibility programme “, says Marko Janhunen, Director of Corporate Responsibility.
Recent international research on use of biochar as soil conditioner points out several potential benefits to be achieved. Development of biochar-recycling products for agricultural use offers, therefore, an important technological option.
This state-of-art research investigates the feasibility of using charcoal mixed with soil as a natural filter. The two-year research programme will be carried out together with the University of Lappeenranta and University of Helsinki and preliminary results are expected by the end of the year.
UPM confirms its responsible water use by joining to UN Global Compact’s CEO Water Mandate
UPM has also joined the United Nations Global Compact’s CEO Water Mandate to confirm its commitment to responsible use of water resources in all its operations.
UPM’s commitment not only covers water reduction, but also minimising the impact of its operations on local water resources and safeguarding natural watercourses in its forests.
“Water is one of the key resources used in pulp and paper production. As the Biofore Company, UPM wants to be an industry leader in responsible water management. We have already decreased water use per tonne of paper by 40% in the last 10 years”, comments Marko Janhunen.