HELSINKI — Ahlstrom, a packaging material and solution provider to the pet food industry, announced April 27 it has received accreditation from the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC). The achievement highlights Ahlstrom’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its packaging products and operations.

"We are thrilled to achieve accreditation through the Pet Sustainability Coalition, which reflects our commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices," said Travis Dahlke, vice president of Ahlstrom's Food Packaging business. "As a company, we are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices throughout our operations, specifically with our packaging alternatives."

Ahlstrom was given a rigorous assessment of its sustainability practices to qualify for the accreditation, including its environmental impact, social responsibility initiatives and governance policies. The assessment also measured the company’s carbon footprint, waste management and water use, according to the company.

"Our accreditation with the Pet Sustainability Coalition is an important milestone for Ahlstrom, as we continue to work toward a more sustainable future," Dahlke added. "We are proud to be recognized for our commitment to sustainability and look forward to working with the PSC and its members to promote sustainable practices across the pet industry."

Specific to the pet industry, the packaging supplier’s sustainability efforts are centered around renewable packaging for pet food products. The company’s PawPrint® portfolio features paper-based solutions that deliver on functionality and visual appeal as well as sustainability benefits associated with substituting plastic with fiber-based materials.

"PSC Accreditation is the only one in the pet industry that recognizes those companies that have concrete sustainability measures built into the company DNA," said Hannah Tirrell Wysocki, accreditation manager at PSC. "Companies must complete rigorous third-party verification of sustainable business practices in alignment with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, meet minimum performance requirements, and demonstrate annual improvement to retain their accreditation. These top performers demonstrate true leadership in the industry with transparency and integrity."

Read more about sustainability efforts in the pet food and treat industry.