DS Smith launches new biodiversity funding

The DS Smith Charitable Foundation, which was brought into the group in 2011, is focused on improving the environment and inspiring the next generation. One of these projects is the Forest for Cornwall program pilot scheme in Launceston, UK. As part of DS Smith’s Now and Next Sustainability Strategy, the foundation will offer grants ranging from GBP 1,000 up to GBP 10,000 (USD 1,320 to USD 13,200) to organizations or individuals that are focused on improving biodiversity within local communities across DS Smith’s global footprint.

DS Smith plans to implement 100 biodiversity projects by 2025, and its paper mills will each launch similar initiatives. Projects eligible for the grant include wildflower meadows, community gardens or tree planting projects.

Wouter van Tol, chair of the charitable foundation and DS Smith’s head of sustainability, said: ‘As a large employer operating across multiple countries, we recognize the importance of reinvesting in our communities and supporting the natural environment. We’d love to hear from organizations across the world that are looking to improve the environment for plants and animals, protect natural habitats or enhance species diversity, and we look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this work.’

Across its operations, DS Smith employs 30,000 people and the scale of its business and approach means it is able to tackle large challenges faced by the wider communities in which it operates and in which its employees live.