Resolute and Greenpeace Parties Announce the Conclusion of Long-Running Litigations - More information

Purolator Wins Resolute Sponsored Clean50 GHG Reduction Award

This year we were honored to present Purolator with the Resolute Forest Products Clean50 Award as GHG (greenhouse gas) Reduction Champion. The award recognizes Canadian organizations that have done the most to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions over the past three years.

Under the leadership of corporate sustainability officer, and Clean50 winner Cindy Bailey, Purolator made significant progress towards its goal to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% by 2030.

By end of 2023, the company will have approximately 100 electrical vehicles (EV) running routes, and reduced scope 2 emissions by 70% through renewable electricity purchases. Over the last two years, it has also increased landfill waste diversion by 30%.

At Resolute, actions to reduce GHG emissions and combat climate change are cornerstones of our sustainability strategy, and we are proud participants and supporters of the annual Clean50 Summit, which brings together progressive business, political and environmental leaders who are tackling climate change from every sector.

ESG Performance: How Long-Term Targets Lead to Lasting Change

Sustainability performance matters as much to the forest products sector’s long-term growth as it does to society at large. The industry has long been an essential player not only in land management and forest conservation, but also in the social and economic well-being of the communities in which it operates. The tools to measure the industry’s impacts have grown more sophisticated, and the same can be said of sustainability reporting.

Driving sustainability performance

Resolute’s public commitments drive the company’s sustainability performance. These commitments are a combination of ambitious long-term objectives, annually revised targets and aspirational goals designed to maintain our competitive position. Our sustainability committee, a cross-functional group comprised of senior managers from various departments, annually reviews and refines these commitments as we consider our work on each target. We report our year-over-year performance and continue to build on a solid base of accomplishments.

ESG reporting reinforces transparency and accountability

Organized by environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments on our corporate website, our current and 2026 targets reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and transparency. Highlights of some of our targets include:

  • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets in line with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

  • Internationally recognized forest management certification at 100% of Resolute-managed woodlands, as well as chain of custody certification at 100% of our manufacturing facilities

  • Annual water consumption targets for each of our pulp, paper and tissue mills

  • Progress toward our 2026 Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) incident rate target of 0.40 or less, by achieving 0.55 in 2023

  • Reduction in roundwood consumption at our wood products facilities of 0.025 m 3 /mfbm compared to 2022

  • Annual contributions of at least $1 million to community and charitable organizations as well as academic institutions

  • A DE&I committee to deploy a company-wide communication program

  • Promotion of the economic participation of Indigenous peoples and businesses in the forest products sector

We are making important progress in achieving our 2026 ESG targets. The ongoing improvements in our safety performance, for example, move us closer to our goal of reaching 30 million hours without a single recordable incident across company operations. And our more than $1 million in contributions in 2022 has laid the foundation for achieving our 2026 goal of contributing at least $5 million to charitable and community organizations, as well as educational programs.

For a synopsis of the company’s sustainability strategy and ESG performance, we invite you to read our ESG at Resolute leaflet.

Resolute Donates Lumber for Florida Hurricane Relief

Hurricane Idalia, a category-4 hurricane that hit land in northern Florida on August 30, 2023, caused significant damage across the southeastern United States. Resolute was quick to respond, working with local partners and Florida Senator Rick Scott to support rebuilding efforts in proximity to our Cross City (Florida) sawmill, one of the area’s largest employers.

We donated four truckloads of lumber through the American Red Cross to help restore family homes and community infrastructure damaged or destroyed by the devastating storm.

The lumber was shipped from Cross City to Steinhatchee, to the site of Steinhatchee Fish Company, shut down in the aftermath of the hurricane. Owners Janalea and Garrett England were expecting four small bundles of wood… only to receive four truckloads of lumber! They mobilized other local business owners for logistical assistance and to identify families from nearby communities whose homes were destroyed or sustained significant damage.

Many others helped coordinate the donation. In addition to Senator Scott and his team, who were instrumental in bringing the various stakeholders together, Cross City Sawmill Manager Chuck Morgan and Resolute’s wood products sales team played a vital role in ensuring the timely delivery of the lumber.

With three facilities and 485 employees in the state, Resolute is proud to support our Florida operating communities.

Resolute Inaugurates New Woodlands Camp

Resolute has built a new woodlands camp in Quebec’s Côte-Nord region, about 200 kilometers (124 miles) north of the town of Baie-Comeau. The modern, comfortable Gaston-Ouellet Camp will accommodate up to 160 workers carrying out sustainable harvesting operations in the Outardes sector. All timber harvested will be transformed at our Outardes (Quebec) sawmill.

On October 19, local elected officials joined Resolute executives and employees for an inauguration ceremony at the site. The camp was named after Gaston Ouellet, who worked in maintenance at numerous woodlands operations over his decades-long career and was known for his passion for the forest and unrivaled work ethic. Mr. Ouellet passed away earlier this year.

The new woodlands camp will generate additional jobs in areas such as vehicle maintenance and food service. For example, thousands of meals prepared with local produce will be provided to our workers each week. The camp features individual rooms as well as Starlink internet and cable TV, among other amenities. Resolute is responsible for maintaining the forest road leading to the camp, making the area accessible for logging and other uses such as recreational activities.

The inauguration of the Gaston-Ouellet Camp highlights Resolute’s commitment to maintaining its longstanding presence in the region, contributing to its socio-economic development for years to come.

Resolute’s Latest GRI-Verified Sustainability Reporting

Our latest sustainability numbers are in, and they were prepared and verified in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) Standards. We have continued to raise the bar on our sustainability disclosures ever since we first started reporting on our performance using GRI in 2010, adopting the GRI Standards in 2018 and transitioning to the Universal Standards in 2022.

Every two years, we update our comprehensive environmental, social and economic data in the sustainability section of our corporate website using GRI-compliant reporting requirements. We recently completed the audit process, and the data in our updated GRI Content Index was validated by the Center for Sustainability and Excellence in accordance with the GRI Standards.

A common reporting index 

GRI is the independent, international organization that helps businesses and other organizations take responsibility for their impacts by providing them with a common language for communicating their performance according to a set of metrics.

Resolute’s online GRI Content Index organizes information according to the standards via links to disclosures on our website and in other public documents. The index provides stakeholders – as well as analysts and policymakers – access to information they can use to not only understand how Resolute is performing, but also the material issues we prioritize – what we call shared priorities.

Our index is made up of general disclosures about the company’s structure and activities, as well as specific disclosures related to three areas: environmental, social and economic. To learn about Resolute’s environmental, social and governance commitments, visit the sustainability section of our website.

Paving the Way With Cellulose Filaments

Resolute, in collaboration with Performance BioFilaments, has taken another step toward developing a viable market for cellulose filaments (CF), an innovative wood-based biomaterial, by conducting field tests in Quebec sidewalks.

On October 11, construction crews in Saguenay used CF-infused concrete to build a new section of sidewalk. Located in a well-travelled area, the more than 100-meter (325-foot) sidewalk also includes a section built using a conventional concrete mix. The durability of both types of concrete will be assessed over the coming winter months and into the spring. This project follows a successful trial carried out at our Senneterre (Quebec) sawmill in late 2022.

Conventional concrete sidewalks can be prone to cracking and accelerated degradation over time, particularly in areas where temperatures vary greatly across seasons and de-icing salts are used. The addition of cellulose filaments enhances the concrete’s curing process, which reduces cracking and creates more weather-resistant sidewalks. Validation of these advantages paves the way for the possibility of using CF in larger-scale infrastructure projects.

This project was conducted in collaboration with Groupe Riverin, the City of Saguenay and durability engineering consultant SIMCO Technologies.

As extensive testing has already demonstrated, CF can improve the quality and sustainability of a wide range of products – from enhancing concrete properties to replacing single-use plastic packaging.

In April 2023, Resolute inaugurated a commercial plant specializing in CF production at our Kénogami (Quebec) paper mill.

By investing in product and process innovation, Resolute is helping develop sustainable solutions to real-world challenges.

Claudia Roberge Recognized at the Globee Awards for Women in Business

Resolute’s Claudia Roberge, superintendent, Health and Safety – Lac-Saint-Jean and Mauricie (Quebec) woodlands operations, has been recognized at the 2023 Globee® Awards for Women in Business. She earned bronze in the Female Achiever/Committed Professional of the Year category. This international awards program annually recognizes women who consistently demonstrate outstanding professionalism, dedication and commitment in their field. Women ranging from multiple industries from across the globe were recognized through the awards program, from companies such as PepsiCo, IBM, AstraZeneca and Microsoft.

ClaudiaRoberge ManteauNoir CSCSM

Claudia Roberge

Over the last three years, Claudia played a crucial role in implementing new health and safety directives for the Lac-Saint-Jean and Mauricie regions, working with teams to fine-tune the protocols in order to meet the needs of the woodlands operations. She adapted well-established health and safety prevention tools – including pre-task risk analysis, proactive near-miss reports and management tools – to on-the-ground realities of woodlands operations, making them relevant to Resolute employees in the field. Congratulations to Claudia for inspiring the next generation of women in forestry.

Resolute Celebrates Community-Minded Students

Can students achieve academic success while making meaningful contributions to their communities? Inspiring students from across Quebec prove it’s possible and are recognized for their accomplishments at the annual Forces AVENIR awards gala. Resolute has been a proud sponsor of the awards program since 2011, donating approximately $25,000 each year to the Fondation Forces AVENIR.

This year marked the 25th anniversary of the organization’s university-level program. The 2023 award winners were honored at a gala in Québec City on September 26. Louis Bouchard, Resolute’s vice president, Public Affairs – Quebec and Wood Products, presented the Personality – Graduate award to Marie-Ève Girard. The award is given to a graduate student balancing academic excellence with engagement in personal or social projects.

GIL_1786

(From l. to r.): Pauline Marois, chair, Fondation Forces AVENIR; Louis Bouchard, vice president, Public Affairs – Quebec and Wood Products, Resolute; and François Grégoire, president and CEO, Forces AVENIR.

Ms. Girard embodies conscious, active and responsible community engagement. She co-founded the Fondation Leski to bring the benefits of service dogs to people living with mental illness, autism or trauma. Her work allows her to combine her love of dogs with a desire to support those who are suffering. Thanks to her efforts, more than 100 families have received over 600 hours of canine assistance. Ms. Girard also serves on the board of directors of Matinées Mères-enfants, an organization supporting new parents and offering a welcoming meeting space, and takes in Ukrainian refugees to help them integrate into their communities. Additionally, Ms. Girard works as a digital business management advisor with the director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions.

Resolute is pleased to join Forces AVENIR in recognizing Ms. Girard and her fellow honorees.

Menominee Mill Named Employer of the Year by the Marinette Menominee Chamber of Commerce

In October 2022, we evacuated our Menominee (Michigan) pulp mill as a major fire burned for 16 days through the densely packed bales of recovered paper, stored for manufacture into 100% recycled bleached kraft (RBK) pulp, in a warehouse space we lease from a third party. The facility resumed production four months after its 100 employees were allowed back in.

And last week, mill general manager Todd Clausen accepted the Employer of the Year award from the Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce and Michigan Works! at the annual awards ceremony.

Working together 

Clausen told the assembled crowd what it was like to rebuild. He recalled employees asking each other for the most basic workplace necessities. “Paper, pens, flashlights and crescent wrenches: Items that were once taken for granted had now become precious commodities,” he said.

The employees worked together to ensure no one was injured in the fire. While the mill was idled, Resolute continued to pay its employees, and when it reopened, their hard work and commitment was on full display.

Supporting the community

Despite the fire, in December 2022 the Menominee mill reached 2 million hours without a single recordable injury – a first at Resolute. In recognition of their remarkable achievement spanning almost a decade, the employees were granted US$15,000 through the company’s Safety Award Program to donate to local charitable causes. They chose to distribute the reward among five volunteer firefighting departments that helped battle the fire.

Our employees also earned a safety award in 2021 for achieving 1,750,000 injury-free hours, donating $10,000 to a local organization that provides nutritional support to 200 school-aged children, and $5,000 to the local police’s canine unit.

By combining safety and community support, Menominee is continuing to build a workplace every employee can be proud of.

Celebrating Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month! / Celebrando el Mes de la Herencia Latinoamericana y Hispana!

The Parliament of Canada proclaimed October as Latin American Heritage Month in 2018, with a view to celebrating the Latin American community and the many contributions its members have made to Canadian society.

Hailing from all 20 Latin American countries, Canadians of Latin American origin make up a large and growing community. They enrich our national fabric with their diverse and vibrant cultures, cuisine, music, dance and more. Latin Americans also play an important role in Canada’s growth and prosperity, thanks to their entrepreneurial spirit.

In the United States, Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15. The dates are significant bookends to the celebration. Mid-September marks the anniversary of independence for a number of Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, Mexico and Chile.

Hispanic Heritage Week was introduced in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson to recognize and honor the enduring contributions and importance of Americans of Hispanic descent to the U.S. The week-long event was extended by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 into a month-long celebration of the many heritages and cultures of the American Latino (more recently, the gender-inclusive Latinx) community.

Commemorative celebrations are one way of cultivating cultural awareness, social empathy, and a community strong in its diversity and solidarity. Let’s take some time to engage with and learn more about Latin American and Hispanic heritage and culture.

El Parlamento de Canadá proclamó octubre como el Mes de la Herencia Latinoamericana en 2018, con el objetivo de celebrar la comunidad latinoamericana y las muchas contribuciones que sus miembros han hecho a la sociedad canadiense.

Provenientes de los 20 países latinoamericanos, los canadienses de origen latinoamericano conforman una comunidad grande y en crecimiento. Enriquecen nuestro tejido nacional con sus culturas diversas y vibrantes, su gastronomía, música, bailes y más. Los latinoamericanos también desempeñan un papel importante en el crecimiento y la prosperidad de Canadá, gracias a su espíritu emprendedor.

En los Estados Unidos, el Mes de la Herencia Hispana se extiende desde el 15 de septiembre hasta el 15 de octubre. Las fechas son hitos significativos para la celebración. Mediados de septiembre marca el aniversario de la independencia de varios países latinoamericanos: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, México y Chile.

La Semana de la Herencia Hispana fue introducida en 1968 bajo el presidente Lyndon B. Johnson para reconocer y honrar las contribuciones duraderas y la importancia de los estadounidenses de origen hispano en los Estados Unidos. El evento de una semana fue extendido en 1988 por el presidente Ronald Reagan a una celebración de un mes de las muchas herencias y culturas de la comunidad latina estadounidense (más recientemente, la inclusiva comunidad Latinx).

Las celebraciones conmemorativas son una forma de fomentar la conciencia cultural, la empatía social y una comunidad sólida en su diversidad y solidaridad. Dediquemos tiempo a relacionarnos y aprender más sobre la herencia y cultura latinoamericana e hispana.

Honoring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (#NDTR). This commemorative day was established by the Government of Canada, in collaboration with Indigenous communities. It’s a time to take stock of the historical injustices suffered by Indigenous peoples in residential schools and to honor those who have suffered the consequences.

It is sometimes called “Orange Shirt Day” because of the orange shirts worn by Indigenous rights activists when this holiday first began to be commemorated in 2013.

Residential schools were created as a means of assimilation and involved removing Indigenous children from their families and communities.

The day honors the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.

This federal statutory holiday was created through legislative amendments made by Parliament. Since its inception in 2021, September 30 is recognized as a legal holiday in Canada for federally regulated workplaces. It’s a direct response to the Call to Action 80 (of 94) from the Truth and Reconciliation report, which recommended a federal statutory day of commemoration. New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut have also declared Sept. 30 a statutory holiday, and British Columbia will do so starting this year.

Today, we mark this day to support the process of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Resolute’s Youngest H&S Superintendent Named Rising Star at FPAC Awards

Resolute employees in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec have come to know Alexis Bolduc-Gagnon thanks to his unwavering commitment to safety. Superintendent of health and safety at our Dolbeau (Quebec) paper mill, Alexis recently won the Forest Products Association of Canada’s (FPAC) 2023 Rising Star Award.

The award recognizes young professionals in the forest products industry who bring passion to their work every day and who are making a unique contribution to their workplace. Alexis has only been with Resolute since 2019 but proved a quick study and gained considerable occupational health and safety knowledge while working at several of our Quebec pulp and paper mills, first as an intern at the Kénogami mill then at Gatineau and Saint-Félicien.

During the pandemic, Alexis played a pivotal role in the implementation of pandemic protocols. He later spearheaded the development of an impactful health and safety video widely disseminated to Resolute’s Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean workforce. In less than three years, Alexis moved from interning at Kénogami to becoming the youngest health and safety superintendent at Dolbeau.

Every operation where Alexis has worked has achieved 250,000 hours without a single recordable incident, thanks in no small part to this rising star’s contributions.

We appreciate Alexis’ commitment to safety and wish him continued success.

https://www.fpac.ca/posts/forest-products-association-of-canada-fpac-announces-2023-awards-of-excellence-winners

Resolute Takes Home a Stevie Award for Great Employers

On September 18, we were named Employer of the Year in the manufacturing category at the Stevie® Awards for Great Employers. The awards program “recognizes the world’s best companies to work for” as well as achievements that help create and drive great places to work.

In particular, the judging panel commended our “outstanding safety record” and our focus on DE&I and ESG initiatives. As one judge noted: It is fascinating to observe the dedication to safeguarding fundamental human rights and fostering a discrimination-free workplace, all while championing sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint. The emphasis on female representation is praiseworthy, and your efforts encompass all the right ingredients. The informative videos certainly got my attention!

The 2023 edition of the competition received over 1,000 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 28 countries in a wide range of HR-related categories, and more than 100 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process.For further details on the awards program, we invite you to visit www.StevieAwards.com/HR.

Resolute Donates 200 Hectares of Land for Long-Term Protection Project

Resolute has donated 200 hectares (494 acres) of biodiversity-rich land for protection by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). The area, located in Baie-Saint-Paul on the north shore of the St. Lawrence Estuary in Quebec’s Charlevoix region, includes vast marshes and dunes that provide quality habitat for aquatic birds. In fact, more than 160 bird species, many of which are at risk, have been observed here. Efforts by the city of Baie-Saint-Paul, the local community and NCC will ensure public access to the beach and protection of the area’s ecosystems.

The donation was announced on September 14 during a ceremony attended by Michaël Pilote, mayor, Baie-Saint-Paul; Catherine Grenier, president and chief executive officer, NCC; Claire Ducharme, regional vice president – Quebec, NCC; Mariette Raina, conservation manager, Age of Union Foundation and Étienne Vézina, senior director, Forestry, Resolute. “We are proud to be among the many contributors who have committed to preserving this magnificent environment and its unique recreational, cultural and ecological value,” remarked Étienne.

Corps-du-billet-de-blogue-5

Resolute has collaborated with NCC since 2021 in supporting the Carapace Project to promote turtle conservation. Given our regard for this partnership, it was only natural for Resolute to work with NCC on coordinating this donation. The land had been owned by Resolute since the early 1900s and more recently by Geneviève Simard as well, and we are pleased to play a part in its preservation. We hope this initiative serves as an example and inspires further conservation endeavors.

Visit the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s website to read their press release and view a video (in French) about the project.

Resolute’s Myriam Lapierre Chosen as One of the Industry’s Top 10 Under 40

Everyone at Resolute is proud of the work they do, not only as individuals, but as part of a larger team. And we also feel proud when our colleagues are recognized for their outstanding achievements by industry peers.

That was certainly the case when we received the summer 2023 edition of Pulp & Paper Canada magazine, where Myriam Lapierre, an environmental technical assistant working at our Saint-Félicien (Quebec) pulp mill, was featured on the cover as one of the top 10 under 40 in Canada’s pulp and paper industry.

A leading trade magazine, Pulp & Paper Canada knows a good story when they see one. Myriam joined Resolute as an intern when she was studying for her undergraduate degree in forensic chemistry at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières. For three summers, she carried out environmental analyses, investigated pollution sources, and assessed production and product chemicals. Her strong work ethic and enthusiasm led to her being hired full-time upon graduation.

Last year, she was part of Resolute’s emerging talent program, working with a team on employee retention recommendations that were eventually adopted by the company. Myriam combines a passion for the industry with both the hard and soft skills needed to get things done. She currently leads a team of laboratory technicians and is responsible for supervising compliance and handling regulatory submissions for areas that include effluents and air emissions. She is an effective communicator and has built outstanding relationships with both colleagues and external stakeholders.

To learn more about Myriam’s journey and the Top 10 Under 40 program, check out the Summer 2023 edition of Pulp & Paper Canada’s online magazine: https://mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?m=38315&i=799298&p=1&ver=html5

Community Life at Resolute: Q2-2023 Highlights

Resolute is focused on building mutually beneficial relationships in the communities in which we live and work. We demonstrate this commitment by tracking our employees’ active involvement in community life, and through frequent reporting and information-sharing with our stakeholders.

Meetings with meaning

Actively engaging with community and elected representatives is critical to our operational success. In the U.S., our Grenada (Mississippi) newsprint mill participated on the board of the Thunder on Water community festival, and members of our Cross City (Florida) sawmill met with congresswoman Kat Cammack to discuss transportation, recruitment and community infrastructure. In Canada, a team from our Outaouais (Quebec) woodlands met with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests, to discuss the construction of a new bridge over the Gens de Terre River, while our Gatineau (Quebec) newsprint mill contributed to Maersk’s diversity and inclusion campaign featuring rainbow-colored shipping containers.

Providing crucial support

Many of our operations played a pivotal role in fundraising initiatives. Our Grenada mill supported the Christmas in April event to help fund the renovation of 15 homes, while Coosa Pines (Alabama) employees participated in the Log a Load for Kids golf tournament, helping to raise US$51,000 for the area’s children’s hospital. In Quebec’s Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, a team of employees ran the 300-km (186 miles) Leucan Ultramarathon, raising over C$76,000 for cancer-stricken children and their families, while others sheltered residents who had been evacuated from forest fires in nearby Chibougamau.

Donations by the truckload

Our in-kind donations provide concrete support for community projects. In Quebec, a team from our La Doré wood products facility donated C$2,700 worth of lumber to the area’s annual trucking festival. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, several of our U.S. operations stepped up to help communities affected by the Category-5 storm, with our Cross City sawmill working with Global Empowerment Mission over several months to deliver four truckloads of lumber to support families in need of new homes or whose homes required extensive repairs.

Investing in communities

When the employees at our Menominee (Michigan) recycled pulp mill reached two million incident-free hours, they received US$15,000 from our safety award program to donate locally. In the spring, they distributed the money to five volunteer firefighting departments that helped extinguish a major blaze at the facility in 2022. Sponsoring sporting events was also a priority for our operations in the second quarter. Grenada mill employees donated US$2,000 between the Boys & Girls Club of the Mississippi Delta and the 100 Black Men of Grenada golf tournament, which supports youth mentorship and education. At our Kénogami (Quebec) paper mill, the team not only sponsored a local golf tournament supporting youth in need, but 36 of its employees also played a round.

To learn about Resolute’s commitment to our operating communities, check out The Resolute Blog as well as the Community Involvement section of our corporate website.

Thank you to our employees for recognizing the value of community support and engagement!

Menominee-April-2023-Mellen-Township-Menominee-Ingallston-2

On the picture, from left to right (Menominee plant): Shawn Hermanson, plant operator; Chris Rohde, firefighter, Peshtigo City station; Jason Triest, safety director; Todd Clausen, general manager; Chuck Gardon, fire chief, Peshtigo City station; and Matt Smiley, process engineer.

Resolute is making concrete progress with cellulose filaments, a novel biomaterial

We have moved forward with production and testing of our cellulose filaments in concrete, and the preliminary findings are extremely promising.

Resolute announced the construction of a commercial plant specializing in the production of cellulose filaments at our Kénogami (Québec) paper mill in 2020. Also known as nanofibrilated cellulose (NFC), cellulose filaments are a novel, 100% natural biomaterial additive made from wood. This material can be used to enhance the technical and environmental performance of a variety of products, such as concrete and plastics.

Resolute’s first concrete steps in the development of this new and exciting material took place in 2014, when Resolute and Mercer International launched Performance Biofilaments Inc., a joint venture focused on commercialization of nanofibrillated cellulose in new and novel applications where it can deliver significant value in applications such as concrete, plastics, rubbers and industrial fluids.

Leading the way

Resolute thinks that entering nontraditional markets implies not only innovating in research and commercialization, but also displaying an appetite for taking measured risks to accelerate the deployment of novel, environmentally friendly solutions.

True to its dedication to successfully taking this product to market, Resolute and its partner Performance Biofilaments commissioned the first commercial trial of a cellulose-filaments enhanced industrial concrete slab as part of Resolute’s Senneterre sawmill expansion. With the help of concrete supplier Béton Barette, general contractor Hardy construction and durability engineering consultant SIMCO Technologies, twin slabs of concrete were poured on the Senneterre site in late 2022. The one contained cellulose filaments and the other used a traditional concrete mix.

Our objectives were to demonstrate the effectiveness of cellulose filaments developed by Performance Biofilaments as an antishrinkage agent, as well as to validate the mixing and pouring sequence on a jobsite.

Concrete promise

We came away with important findings that showed the tremendous potential of cellulose filaments. We confirmed that our product helps control the evaporation of water, which reduces cracking during the initial curing of fresh concrete. Over time, we will also validate the effect of filaments on the durability of the concrete slab. For example, in Quebec’s climate, low-porosity concrete slows the diffusion of chlorides from the use of de-icing salts. The result is a reduction in the probability that reinforcement bars will corrode and an increase in the overall durability of concrete. The benefits of cellulose filaments can add up, from the environmental standpoint and in terms of infrastructure management, especially large structures.

The value of partnerships

Our innovative approach to resource transformation involves working with industry partners to turn existing base materials, such as kraft pulp, toward beneficial uses.

The extraction technology used to produce cellulose filaments was developed by FPInnovations, a private, not-for-profit organization that creates solutions to support the Canadian forest sector’s global competitiveness and counts Resolute as a member.

Moving forward

“When we look at the horizon of what is possible, our experience at the Senneterre sawmill shows we’re on the right track,” said Alain Bourdages, Resolute’s vice president, Innovation and Energy. “Our initial testing shows that we are indeed advancing the value-added transformation of wood fiber into a 100% natural specialty additive for products such as concrete and markets such as construction. What we have here is a performance-enhancing biobased material. This is a truly exciting initiative.”

We are looking forward to carrying out more projects with various partners and expanding the scale of the testing. We encourage industry stakeholders to reach out to Performance Biofilaments or Resolute about their specific interests. Together, we can explore how cellulose filaments can enhance their products and benefit their businesses.

UPDATE: Student video reflects on Resolute-sponsored Antarctic Expedition

Last year, Resolute was among the sponsors of the 2041 Foundation’s ClimateForce Antarctic Expedition, an initiative bringing together a global team of students, CEOs, engineers and, scientists and youth activists to discuss climate change and sustainability in one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems.

Resolute’s support helped McGill University’s fourth-year Chemical and Environmental Engineering student Quang Anh Nguyen join 170 delegates on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

His video diary offers a stunning glimpse of the 12-day journey that included ice trekking, close encounters with whales, seals and penguins, along with discussions on climate science, renewable energy and leadership development.

A native of Vietnam, Nguyen saw cold and stormy weather in one of the most extreme places on earth. He also experienced rain, a remarkable and unusual event for Antarctica and a powerful reminder of how climate change is affecting the balance of this delicate wilderness.

Multiple Safety and Sustainability Wins as Resolute Takes 37 Awards in 2022

Resolute is proud of the recognition we continue to receive for our leadership in corporate social responsibility and sustainable development, as well as for our business practices. In 2022, we garnered 37 awards and distinctions at the international, North American and regional levels.

Our commitment to safety was in the spotlight – not only for our world-class performance, but also for the animated capsule we produced that won both gold and grand awards at the iNova Awards.

We were also recognized for our sustainability strategy, taking high commendation in the Sustainability Excellence category at the World Sustainability Awards, and winning aSustainability Leadership Award at the Business Intelligence Group’s Sustainability Awards for the second consecutive year.

Our experience and expertise in sustainability reporting were recognized, including with three separate awards for the quality and accessibility of our environmental, social and governance (ESG) leaflets (The Norns AwardsNYX Marcom Awards and LACP Vision Awards).

As a leading producer of wood products, we were named Company of the Year at the Globee® Awards, and awarded platinum at the Titan Business Awards for being a responsible steward and transforming a renewable resource (wood fiber) into tissue products.

The contribution of our people was also recognized during the 2022 awards season with several individual wins, including Marie-Noëlle Watts for Female Achiever (Globee Awards – Women World Awards), Tom Ratz for Outstanding Member of the Year (FPAC Awards of Excellence), Christa Campbell for Rising Star (FPAC Awards of Excellence) and Ashleigh Marchl for making the Top 10 Under 40 list (Pulp & Paper Canada).

To read more about the awards and recognition Resolute received in 2022, click here.

Laval University’s research strengthening Indigenous capacity in forest management

Resolute has long been dedicated to improving education in our operating communities and sparking innovation in the forest products sector. We are also committed to supporting and maintaining constructive relationships with Indigenous businesses and communities.

More than 80% of First Nations communities in Canada live in forested environments, and the socio-economic benefits of forest management are important to many of these communities.

That’s why we focused our five-year, C$175,000 commitment to fund Laval University’s Educational Leadership Chair in Indigenous Forestry on strengthening the capacity of Indigenous communities to participate in the management and sustainable development of forests. The research chair studies the relationships between Indigenous communities, forest products companies and governments, while striving to increase public awareness of Indigenous cultures and realities.

This year marks the third of our five-year commitment to fund the chair’s work through the Quebec Forest Industry Council (QFIC). This research chair leverages the expertise of Laval University to support research that will better connect forest management practices with the realities of Indigenous communities. Under the direction of Professor Jean-Michel Beaudoin, the work is focused on three objectives:

  • Strengthen the capacity of Indigenous communities in Quebec to participate in the management and sustainable development of forests.

  • Promote sustainable relations between Indigenous communities, forest products companies and governments.

  • Increase public awareness of Indigenous cultures and realities.

Through academic support, Resolute is helping to develop a highly qualified workforce to meet the needs of both the forest products sector and our operating communities.

Learn about our commitment to Research Partnerships.

It’s Black History Month

Black History Month is dedicated to honoring the legacy and celebrating the achievements of Black Canadians and Americans. They have shaped and enriched communities across North America, including our own at Resolute.

While we wish to underscore employee contributions from Black communities all year long, Black History Month in February reminds us to set time aside to learn more about historic events and people from Black communities.

We encourage all Resolute employees to join us in celebrating the diversity that makes our company and our communities stronger. To learn more on Black History Month, visit this link here and the Library of Congress website.

Resolute is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplace, where every employee has the opportunity to grow and reach their potential.

Below you will find a timeline of movements and accomplishments as well as important figures who we celebrate during this month.

Timeline_Black-history-month

Resolute joins U.S.-based Working Forests Initiative

To anyone working in the forest products sector, it’s obvious: We plant, grow, sustain and harvest, then we do it all over again.

But it’s not something that is widely understood or talked about.

Resolute is pleased to join the Working Forests Initiative (WFI), which seeks to establish and advance a common understanding of the broad range of environmental, economic and societal benefits generated by working forests, the many sustainable products they provide, and the critical role forests play as a natural climate solution.

WFI was started by companies and associations across the supply chain, from timberland owners and loggers to manufacturers including lumber, OSB, plywood and engineered wood, as well as pulp and paper.

Videos, ads and a website support the effort. One video talks about the work that goes into sustaining the cycle of a forest and another offers a personal perspective on stewardship. The latest video in the series shows what it takes to keep forests thriving. The simple and effective messaging in the videos and ads are clear and shareable.

For more information, visit the WFI website.

Resolute’s Sustainability Committee Adopts a Charter

Strong corporate governance is fundamental to Resolute’s long-term success as an increasingly diversified, highly competitive and consistently profitable organization.

Developing and guiding the company’s sustainability strategy and performance, our sustainability committee has been actively bolstering environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives since 2011. At the end of 2022, the committee adopted a new charter outlining its purpose, responsibilities and procedures.

The committee’s mandate includes:

  • developing and driving the company’s sustainability strategy and performance;

  • identifying, recommending and providing oversight on the company’s key sustainability commitments;

  • monitoring plans and performance;

  • overseeing reporting and communications;

  • ensuring continuous improvement; and

  • assessing stakeholder expectations and sustainability trends.

Directly accountable to the company’s executive team, and ultimately, the president and chief executive officer, the sustainability committee is chaired by the vice president, Corporate Communications, Sustainability and Government Affairs, and composed of a cross-functional group of senior managers and subject-matter experts from across the company, from sales and human resources to communications, forestry, finance, investor relations, IT, legal, operations, procurement and environment. This diligent system of governance, reflective of Resolute’s approach at the corporate level, ensures integrity and transparency while allowing us to engage meaningfully with our stakeholders.

To learn more about Resolute’s sustainability committee, consult the committee’s new charter on the company’s website.

Creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive culture at Resolute

Resolute is working continuously to offer a work environment in which everyone feels included and valued. That’s why we established our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Committee at the beginning of 2022, under the guidance of Committee Lead Karen Roach, general manager of our Grenada (Mississippi) newsprint mill.

In the spirit of building an inclusive community, the committee will communicate with and hold events for employees throughout 2023. This outreach is designed to build awareness and provide education around DE&I challenges; promote inclusive behavior and language; and encourage constructive, respectful conversations. The committee will also make recommendations to Resolute’s executive team based on feedback from these initiatives.

We each have a role to play in shaping a more diverse, equitable and inclusive culture.

Stay tuned for more from Resolute’s DE&I advisory committee!

Resolute supplier registry promotes local, regional and Indigenous business

At Resolute, we are committed to a resilient supply chain that contributes to socio-economic development of our operating communities. We are promoting the development of regional procurement with a portal where companies can register to become Resolute suppliers. Our supply chain is in large part built upon the efforts of local, regional and Indigenous goods and services providers, and we value the role they play in generating growth and opportunity in their communities.

In focusing on local and regional supply chains, the registry allows us to call on qualified local vendors in order to effectively, efficiently and – above all – regionally manage the specific needs of each of our facilities. Our objective is to obtain value-added goods and services aligned with our Regional Procurement Policy Guidelines and Indigenous Procurement Policy Guidelines.

Our Quebec operations began using the registry in 2020, and it was extended to our Ontario and U.S. operations in 2021. Over 2,800 businesses have signed up since its launch. Companies can register by completing a form on the Resolute Regional Supplier Registration Portal.

Suppliers should note that Resolute’s regional supplier registry is separate from the Cognibox™ supplier qualification process, which provides solutions for training, contractor management and compliance.

Sustainable Forest Management in Action: Protecting Baby Bats

Protecting biodiversity is a key element of sustainable forest management (SFM), and Resolute recognizes that it is possible to harvest trees carefully while upholding the forest values we all respect. Our employees and contractors know the principles of SFM well and closely follow them.

In summer 2022, while harvesting in Quebec’s Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region on behalf of Resolute, an employee of the Coopérative de solidarité forestière de la Rivière-aux-Saumons spotted numerous bats in a stand of spruce trees. Following regulations, the employee immediately halted operations and alerted the Direction générale de la gestion des forêts du Nord-Est, which took rapid action to protect the bats – actually, two maternities, the name given to groups of bats nesting together. The area occupied by the bats was left intact in order to allow them to continue raising their next generation.

The bats were found to represent two different species, both of which were added to the Quebec government’s vulnerable and threatened list. Under provincial law, species can be classified as “vulnerable” if their long-term survival is considered precarious, or “threatened” if their numbers drop to the point of imminent disappearance. Bat population growth can decline for a number of reasons, including climate change and emerging infections such as white-nose syndrome (an emergent disease of hibernating bats). Given their sensitivity to changes in their environment, the presence of bats is an excellent indicator of ecosystem health.

While biodiversity is typically monitored by government agencies at the provincial level in Canada, Resolute has adopted strategies to collaborate on sustaining biodiversity, including:

  • implementation of selected management practices (such as partial or progressive cuts, retention of trees for nesting and buffering around eagle nests);

  • protection of biodiversity and species at risk;

  • protection of watersheds, water resources, and the fish and wildlife that depend on them;

  • identification of protected areas; and

  • natural and planted forest regeneration.

We commend the vigilance of our contractors and employees and the collaboration of all involved in upholding SFM standards and protecting bat populations.

Resolute enhances climate reporting with new scope 3 webpage

At Resolute, we have tracked our scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions since 2009, updating and disclosing our inventory since 2013. We also disclose our annual carbon footprint to CDP, a globally recognized, non-profit framework that has long championed environmental disclosure as standard business practice.

We have improved access to our disclosures on a new webpage dedicated to scope 3 emissions reporting. The new page highlights our emission reduction commitments in line with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and will help partners and stakeholders track the progress we are making toward reducing GHG emissions across our value chain. In 2022, SBTi validated our new scope 3 emission reduction target – a 16.5% reduction over 2015 levels by 2026, which builds on our SBTi validated reduction target of 41.5% for scope 1 and 2 emissions.

Scope 3 is a reporting category that includes indirect emissions that occur in the value chain, both upstream and downstream, whereas scope 1 covers the carbon footprint of direct operations and scope 2, the carbon footprint of energy, such as purchased electricity. Scope 3 emissions often make up the majority of a company’s GHG emissions, and at Resolute, approximately 70% of our 2021 total carbon footprint falls into this category.

Actions to reduce GHG emissions and combat climate change are cornerstones of Resolute’s sustainability strategy. In 2022, we achieved our 2025 GHG reduction target ahead of schedule by reducing our scope 1 and 2 absolute GHG emissions by 32% compared to 2015 levels. In total, Resolute has reduced scope 1 and 2 emissions by 85% at our pulp, paper and tissue mills since year-2000.

To learn more about our scope 3 emission reductions, visit the Scope 3 Emissions webpage.

Promoting prosperity and protecting our planet through the UNSDGs

Ending global poverty might not seem like an obvious goal for a forest products company, but by aligning our sustainability strategy with the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we’re taking action for a more inclusive, peaceful and prosperous future.

Developed in 2015 by the UN, the SDGs are a universal call to action to promote prosperity while protecting the planet. They recognize that ending poverty goes hand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and address a range of social needs including education, health, social protection, and job opportunities, while tackling climate change and environmental protection. There are 17 SDGs in all, and Resolute identified eight that align with our sustainability commitments:

  1. Water management (Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation): We’re committed to managing water efficiently with annual water reduction targets for each of our pulp, paper and tissue mills.

  2. Energy (Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy): We’re optimizing the use of renewable energy sources, such as hydroelectricity and carbon-neutral biomass, while reducing our consumption of fossil fuels.

  3. Employee Health, Safety & Wellness (Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth): We’re committed to implementing new leadership and human resources practices to create a diverse and inclusive workplace, one where safety remains a core value and where the collective bargaining process and our employees’ right to freedom of association are fundamental to our way of doing business.

  4. Economic Performance and Infrastructure Investments (Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure): We established a plant specializing in the production of cellulose filaments, a sustainable biomaterial, and modernized equipment at our Kénogami (Quebec) paper mill to enhance the facility’s competitiveness.

  5. Waste Management (Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production): We’re focused on reducing  waste sent to landfills by identifying beneficial-use alternatives such as land spreading, and pursuing process efficiencies, such as optimizing fiber use to minimize the cost of effluent treatment.

  6. Climate Change (Goal 13: Climate Action): We reduced our scope 1 and 2 absolute GHG emissions by 32% compared to 2015 levels ahead of our 2025 schedule, and this past year, the Science Based Targets initiative validated our new emission reduction targets, which include a 41.5% reduction in absolute scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2026 from a 2015 base year, and a 16.5% reduction in scope 3 emissions within the same timeframe.

  7. Forest Management, Fiber Sourcing Practices & Biodiversity (Goal 15: Life on Land): We maintain internationally recognized forest management certification at 100% of our owned or managed forests, and 100% of the woodlands we harvest are regenerated. On fiber sourcing practices, we maintain chain of custody certifications to internationally recognized standards at all our facilities. . We also participate in woodland caribou research and recovery plans and actively protect biodiversity and species at risk through our forest management plans.

  8. Environmental Compliance (Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions): Our sustainability strategy is focused on moving beyond regulatory compliance and incident management to position the company as an environmental supplier of choice. We track environmental and forest management incidents, disclosing them annually.

Committing to these goals will help us be a more efficient and competitive company, a better employer, stronger business partner and be even more deeply engaged with our communities.For more information on how the company integrated the UN’s SDGs into our sustainability reporting strategy, visit the sustainability section of our website.

Community Life at Resolute: Q3-2022 Highlights

Resolute is focused on building mutually beneficial relationships in the communities in which we live and work. We demonstrate this commitment through transparency, information-sharing and active involvement in community life.

InfoResolu Montage
______________

1. Scholarship handoff ceremony through the Coosa Pines (Alabama) pulp mill scholarship program. Sydney Ezekiel, university student and scholarship recipient (left), and Andrea Hollingsworth, controller, Coosa Pines mill.

2. Carpenter apprentices participate in training course given by Carpenters Union Local 1669, using lumber donated by our Thunder Bay (Ontario) sawmill.

3. On September 9, Resolute’s business partners and employees joined President and Chief Executive Officer Remi Lalonde and other members of our executive team on the Grande virée à vélo du président in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean (Quebec).

Making newcomers feel welcome

The war in Ukraine and a shortage of workers in Northwestern Ontario prompted a unique recruitment strategy this past quarter: hiring Ukrainian workers. In collaboration with community partners like the Newcomer Centre of Peel, our Atikokan sawmill welcomed 17 Ukrainian refugees, totaling 40 including those hired at the Ignace and Thunder Bay sawmills. We anticipate hiring many more Ukrainians in 2023. Making newcomers feel welcome was also on the agenda for our Comtois (Quebec) sawmill employees who volunteered at Agora Boréale, a local organization that provides free services to help immigrants integrate into Quebec communities.

Time for things that matter

Employees from the Comtois sawmill volunteered at the Maison de la Famille, a non-profit, family-focused organization that provides access to community activities such as board games, arts and crafts, and coffeehouse meetings. Meanwhile, at our Kénogami (Quebec) paper mill, several employees focused on women’s health by volunteering at a women’s wellness center in Jonquière.

An employee at our Menominee (Michigan) pulp mill volunteered with the Young Eagles program, an organization that introduces the world of aviation to kids by offering free educational flights. Another employee from our Mistassini (Quebec) woodlands participated on the board of directors of the Fondation équilibre Saguenay–Lac-St-Jean, an organization focused on improving mental health services.

Paying it forward

Our Thunder Bay sawmill donated lumber valued at $1,600 to the Female Boarder Collective, a non-profit organization focused on inclusion, for the construction of an indoor skatepark. The facility also donated $3,150 of lumber to Carpenters Union Local 1669 for its apprenticeship training program. In Calhoun (Tennessee), our tissue mill donated 1,000 cases of bath tissue and 1,000 cases of paper towels to Operation Compassion, which delivers critical aid to people affected by disaster at home and around the world. And in Arkansas, our Glenwood sawmill sponsored the Pike County Fair and Rodeo, contributing $10,000 to the organizing committee.

Supporting youth development and sport participation

Our Coosa Pines (Alabama) pulp mill gave the Babe Ruth All-Stars team $1,000 for a trip to the little league world series, as well as a $2,000 scholarship for a student at the University of Alabama. More scholarships went out from our Glenwood sawmill, which awarded $1,000 to two high school students. In Quebec, our Senneterre sawmill provided a $10,000 sponsorship for the Tour de l’Abitibi, an international cycling race for youth between the ages of 6 and 16.

Raising funds and having fun

Fundraising events come in many forms. Employees at the Clermont (Quebec) newsprint mill participated in a golf tournament organized by the Federation of Quebec Paramedic Cooperatives to help raise funds for the purchase of defibrillators and to support organizations in the region. Saint-Félicien (Quebec) pulp mill employees cycled 20-, 40- or 80-kilometer courses in the Grande virée à vélo du président, in support of several local charities. The following day, employees took part in the Défi Déméter, a 5-kilometer obstacle course challenge benefiting the Fondation du Cégep de St-Félicien, a local educational institution.

To learn about Resolute’s commitment to our operating communities, check out The Resolute Blog as well as the Community Involvement section of the corporate website.

Thank you to our employees for recognizing the value of community support and engagement!

Resolute attends UN Biodiversity Conference (COP 15)

Resolute was pleased to join the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®) delegation during COP 15 in Montreal where a historic framework was signed to safeguard biodiversity. Several members of our team attended workshops, panels and keynotes, including the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s event on conservation, to continue building relationships, promote the value and role of sustainable forest management, and understand different stakeholders’ concerns and perspectives.

Also known as the United Nations Biodiversity Conference, COP 15 is the fifteenth meeting of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, bringing together countries to agree on a new set of goals to guide global action through 2030 to halt and reverse nature loss.

At Resolute, we recognize it is possible to harvest trees carefully while maintaining biodiversity. Our forest management and chain of custody certifications ensure the woodlands we manage provide protection for forest biodiversity and habitat – and that our fiber is obtained from responsible sources. In fact, standards require third-party audits aimed at safeguarding biodiversity, water quality, wildlife habitat, species at risk and forests with exceptional conservation value.To learn more about conservation and biodiversity at Resolute, we invite you to visit our webpage.