As vice president of sustainability at Domtar, David Struhs is responsible for helping to set targets for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, water use and waste. He has been at Domtar for approximately two years, and previously worked at the US Environmental Protection Agency. During his time working for the government, he came to believe that the most effective solutions are brought about by the private sector.
In 2013, Struhs spoke with David Kiron and Nina Kruschwitz of the MIT Sloan Management Review. Read on for five pieces of advice, instructive for any organization that is pursuing a sustainability strategy:
Put sustainability at the core
Many companies use sustainability as a means for responding to pressure from the market or NGOs. However, at Domtar, it is a core part of the business model. The company’s early efforts focused on the transparency of the supply chain. Since then, these efforts have evolved to focus on manufacturing excellence and optimizing efficiency.
Recruit the best
In recent years, Domtar has attracted some of the brightest students from the top master’s programs in the country. Why are these young professionals interested in pulp and paper? The answer is simple: they view sustainable innovation as a way to differentiate themselves in the marketplace. By joining Domtar, they are able to work on cutting-edge technologies that actually have an impact on the planet.
Look toward the future
The pulp and paper industry has not always been admired for its positive impact on the environment. However, by partnering with organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and practicing the highest degree of transparency, Domtar has been able to tell a positive story throughout its history. In looking toward the future, the company has set specific goals for its environmental footprint and for the utilization of fiber sources.
Maintain a razor-sharp focus on product
Domtar has gone from a paper producer to a fiber innovator, and it strives to develop new fiber-based solutions that take advantage of renewable resources. New products must always be lighter, faster, better and ultimately more renewable than their predecessors.
Give back to the community
For Domtar, sustainability is about people. It’s about creating a net positive benefit in the communities where the company operates – and that can include water, air, employment, taxes, health or safety. Domtar has earned its license to operate by consistently giving back.
To learn more, visit the company’s Sustainable Growth Report.
Content on this page is provided by Domtar, a sponsor of the Vital Signs platform
