"We are constantly looking for ways to be more energy efficient, reduce carbon emissions and ultimately achieve our goal of climate neutrality of operations by 2050. In this context, we have outlined an action plan that includes a series of specific measures, also being implemented at the paper factory in Zărneşti, starting with the modernization of equipment to maximize the efficiency of our activity, but also exploring all the possibilities of transition to alternative energy sources. The project is ongoing", said DS Smith representatives.

According to local media, the park would be ready in 2024, it would require an investment of €16 million and would generate approximately 19 MWh per year.

The project is included in the list of projects submitted as part of a call made by the Ministry of Energy to launch a bidding procedure for energy production projects from renewable sources, with financing through the PNRR.

DS Smith also allocated investments of €11 million for a technological water treatment plant at the paper factory in Zărneşti, which is the largest profile unit in Romania, serving almost half of the local market. The project will be completed later this year.

This investment contributes to reducing the consumption of freshwater by up to 20% and reducing the amount of technological waste by 60%, through the better internal valorization of them.

By 2050, DS Smith has set out to reduce carbon emissions to a minimum, and in this sense, new investments will be required at the level of all factories in the 34 countries where the group carries out production activities. The local market represents 5% of the business generated by the entire group.