The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

*In a ceremony on 28 March at Elopak Group Headquarters in Stabekk, Norway, Elopak signed a major partnership agreement with WWF Norway (World Wide Fund for Nature). The prime goal of the partnership is for Elopak and WWF to combine their efforts to reduce carbon emissions. *

Elopak commits to reduce the company’s carbon emissions by 15% by 2010. WWF will coach and verify Elopak’s efforts to achieve this goal. This is a three year partnership agreement, and is the first of its kind in Elopak’s history.

In addition, Elopak will contribute money to WWF’s biodiversity and forestry management programmes, and WWF will monitor the sustainability of the forestry practices used by Elopak’s board suppliers as needed. The agreement was signed by Elopak Chief Marketing Officer Børge Kvamme and WWF Norway Secretary General Rasmus Hansson. * Making good on commitment* Børge Kvamme stated: “We are committed to reducing our carbon emissions significantly, and demonstrating the environmental attractiveness of our beverage carton. WWF will help us make good on this commitment, injecting key competence and verifying that we do what we say. Through these combined efforts we hope to qualify as a WWF Climate Saver.”

Elopak Director Environment Sveinar Kildal said: “We will provide direct sponsorship for WWF’s programmes in forestry and biodiversity. These programmes are essential for fighting illegal logging and protecting endangered species. The partnership will therefore help us secure that 100% of our raw material comes from well managed forests.” * WWF* WWF is the world’s largest and most experienced independent conservation organisation, working in over 90 countries addressing critical climate change and environmental issues. It is an organization that makes a difference, vigorously campaigning towards governments, industry and the general public to create viable long-term solutions for the planet’s environment.

The WWF offers many opportunities to educate Elopak people through training programmes and activities, and it provides valuable strategic advice on sustainability issues to the global packaging industry.

“This partnership opens up many opportunities for Elopak and our joint ventures around the world. It gives us a more credible voice when speaking about the environment, and marks the start of an important new stage in Elopak’s environmental and sustainable strategy,” said Sveinar Kildal.