Marcel Cote, strategic marketing director, Avery Dennison South Asia Pacific and Sub Saharan Africa, reached out to WWF’s Mayj Tolentino, senior manager, Corporate Partnerships, seeking opportunities to actively build awareness of the importance of FSC certification within the Southeast Asia region. “Deforestation is taking place at record rates across Southeast Asia, with serious consequences for ecosystems and livelihoods. We have a shared responsibility to protect the forests, especially those in forestry-based industries. We are pleased to partner with Avery Dennison, as it transforms into a fully-certified supply chain, setting a sterling example for other businesses to follow,” adds Elaine Tan, chief executive officer of WWF-Singapore.
Marcel, who has worked at Avery Dennison for eight years, has long been aware of the profound impact industry has on the environment, and, as a passionate sustainability advocate, wants to make a positive impact in the Southeast Asia region. “I’m very proud that our company and Foundation are part of this truly unique collaboration with WWF and the Forest Owners Sustainable Development Association of Thua Thien Hue Province in Vietnam. Such positive actions can raise awareness of the importance of sustainable paper sourcing within our industry and help influence the broader value chain to make more sustainable choices that can directly help the environment and livelihoods of local communities,” Cote shared.
In Southeast Asia, Avery Dennison now sources approximately 60% of its face paper from FSC-certified sources. We’re excited to see the impact the Forest Owners Sustainable Development Association has on its forests, its community, and globally. It’s a real-life example that shows how–through investing in broad, diverse regions – Avery Dennison can spark important conversations with local communities, positively shape their thinking, and transform adverse behavior to lessen impact on the planet.
