Actions to safeguard biodiversity
In paper production, safeguarding biodiversity begins with the responsible choice of using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests, ensuring:
- the protection of natural ecosystems and endangered species in forest areas
- the long-term renewability of forests through planned harvesting and replanting
- the safeguarding of the rights of local communities who depend on forests.
Burgo Group’s sourcing policies
The Group prioritises the purchase of wood and fibrous raw materials from FSC® and PEFC-certified forests. These forestry certifications ensure compliance with standards on renewability, respect for biodiversity, and habitat preservation through responsible and continuously monitored forest management practices.
Certified fibre sourcing by Burgo Group – Source: Burgo Group 2024 Sustainability Report
This approach is both forward-looking from an environmental perspective and strategically sound in commercial terms. According to the recent Trend Tracker Survey 2024 carried out by Two Sides Europe, over 79% of Italians consider it essential that paper products (from packaging to books, magazines, and food-contact applications) come from sustainably managed forests. This is clear evidence of the growing environmental awareness among consumers.
The pace of digital transformation is clear to all — yet one fact remains constant: paper continues to play a central role in consumer choices.
Protecting natural areas
The choices guiding Burgo Group’s commitment to biodiversity are mainly:
- responsible sourcing of fibrous raw materials
- measures to reduce water and energy consumption
- the promotion of new technologies for more sustainable paper production.
In addition to these initiatives, the Group is also directly involved in safeguarding areas of high natural value.
In Italy, Burgo Group owns the Germagnano Woodland, a forested area of over one million square metres, managed in a natural way and without the exploitation of its resources.
In Belgium, Burgo Ardennes participates in a Biodiversity Support Committee dedicated to protecting three sites recognised under the Natura 2000 network, located near the Virton mill: Vallées de la Chevratte (BE34063C0), Vallées de la Vire et du Ton (BE34064C0), Vallée du Ton et Côte bajocienne de Montquintin à Ruette (BE34066C0).
Natura 2000 is an ecological network that extends across the European Union, established under Directive 92/43/EEC (the “Habitats Directive”) to ensure the long-term conservation of natural habitats. The Directive acknowledges the importance of areas where centuries of human presence and traditional activities have maintained a balance between people and nature. The Biodiversity Support Committee, in which Burgo Ardennes plays an active role, is committed to preserving this balance by monitoring biodiversity indicators and implementing protective actions.
