Smurfit Kappa talks up its latest environmental accolade

Smurfit Kappa issued an RNS update in its trademark boastful fashion on Wednesday, claiming that its commitment to sustainability had been recognised again by the Euronext Vigeo Eiris index.

The FTSE 100 packaging firm was listed on the sustainability index for the sixth year in a row, reportedly after distinguishing itself for its environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.

It said its annual sustainable development report provided a “detailed and transparent” update on its ESG performance in five strategic areas of focus - climate change, forest, water, waste and people.

In the 2017 report, which was launched earlier this year, the company announced several key sustainability achievements including meeting three targets relating to water, climate change and health and safety ahead of time.

The report also apparently revealed that Smurfit Kappa had invested around €5m in social and scientific projects to benefit the communities in which it operates.

“We are delighted to have been listed on this prestigious index again,” said Smurfit Kappa’s group vice-president of development Steven Stoffer.

“For Smurfit Kappa, sustainability is not only about mitigating climate change and reducing inefficiency, it is also about taking a sustainable approach to every aspect of our business.”

Stoffer said that a growing number of investors and funds were incorporating ESG criteria into their investment decisions, meaning it was “vital” for the company to provide such assurance.

“Many of our customers also expect their business partners to have a genuine commitment to corporate social responsibility and this is something that Smurfit Kappa has won several supplier awards for.”