Stora Enso Takes Swift Action Following Environmental Violation in Finland

Stora Enso Takes Swift Action Following Environmental Violation in Finland

(IN BRIEF) Stora Enso has initiated immediate actions following an environmental violation at one of its harvesting sites in Kainuu, Finland. The company has suspended all harvesting in sensitive areas until operational guidelines and risks are reassessed. Additionally, Stora Enso is enhancing environmental training for its employees and conducting a comprehensive audit of its wood procurement processes. The company is also involved in restoration efforts to preserve the local ecosystem, particularly focusing on the habitat of freshwater pearl mussels.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 26-Aug-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Stora Enso has launched a series of immediate and comprehensive measures following the discovery of an environmental violation at one of its harvesting sites in Kainuu, Finland. The incident, which occurred on August 15, is being investigated as a serious nature conservation crime, prompting the company to take swift action to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.

In response to the violation, Stora Enso has suspended all harvesting activities in areas across Finland where environmental regulations under the Water Act, the Forest Act, or the Nature Conservation Act apply. This suspension will remain in place until a thorough reassessment of operational guidelines, harvesting plans, and associated risks is completed. The company is also working closely with authorities to assess any potential non-compliance.

Hans Sohlström, President and CEO of Stora Enso, acknowledged the significant impact on the company’s reputation, emphasizing the importance of restoring trust. “Our commitment to sustainability has been called into question, and we are taking every possible step to ensure that our operations align with our values of responsibility and environmental stewardship,” Sohlström stated.

In addition to the suspension of harvesting, Stora Enso has initiated enhanced environmental training for all employees, contractors, and subcontractors involved in its wood supply chain. This training, which began immediately, focuses on ensuring compliance with environmental policies and guidelines.

Stora Enso is also conducting a comprehensive audit of its wood procurement processes, both internally and with the assistance of a third party. This audit aims to verify that all procedures are in line with regulatory requirements and the company’s sustainability standards.

Moreover, the company has launched an internal investigation into the events at Hukkajoki and is actively participating in restoration efforts led by Metsähallitus, a state-owned forestry enterprise. These efforts focus on preserving the habitat of freshwater pearl mussels in the affected area, with Stora Enso committing to cover all associated costs.

Media Contact:

Media Relation:
Carl Norell
SVP Corporate Communications
tel. +46 72 241 0349

Investor Relation:
Anna-Lena Åström
SVP Investor Relations
tel. +46 70 210 7691

SOURCE: STORA ENSO OYJ