Smurfit Kappa grows ever greener with innovative trucks

Smurfit Kappa is taking yet more steps to drive down the emissions created by its supply chain by introducing the use of innovative new trucks.

The trucks have increased capacity and slashed CO2 emissions by 20% so far. The vehicles have been trialled at the Piteå Paper Mill in Sweden, and the increased size of loads they can handle means a 30% reduction in the number of annual trips.

Smurfit Kappa wanted to streamline its Piteå supply chain and applied the logistical solution based on its wealth of experience in supply chain optimisation. The business has invested in vehicles with extra axles to increase capacity, and modified floors to adapt to different loading systems. Euro 5 engines have hugely reduced emissions already, and will incorporate a new biofuel (HVO100), which allows for a reduction of fossil CO2 emissions by up to 90%, that will be introduced soon.

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Smurfit Kappa is always looking for ways to make its operations greener. In its 2016 Sustainability Development Report, it announced that it has already cut CO2 emissions by 23%, meaning it is well on the way to meeting – and exceeding – the 2020 target of 25%.

Speaking about the logistics changes, Per Sward, CEO of the Piteå Paper Mill, said: “This is a very positive step for the mill. The optimised trucks and ships have not only made us become even more efficient, they are also benefiting the wider community. The Piteå Paper Mill has a long history in the area and this investment in logistics will significantly reduce CO₂ emissions for years to come.

“We believe that through taking a sustainable approach to every aspect of our company, products and processes, we become more efficient. This is certainly true of the new logistics system.”

Saverio Mayer, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Europe added: “At Smurfit Kappa, we aim for sustainability in every fibre of our company. This supply chain innovation builds on our commitment to help create a sustainable future by building a profitable business.”