Smurfit Kappa named as one of Colombia's most inspiring companies

Smurfit Kappa has been named as one of the 25 most inspiring companies by the National Businesses’ Association in Colombia (Asociación Nacional de Empresarios de Colombia).

The award was recognition for the work that Smurfit Kappa has done to promote and support the importance of recycling and build effective recycling infrastructure. 

The packaging leader supports 30 recycling organisations through partnerships with a charitable foundation set up by the Grupo Familia multinational personal care brand and Wiego, a global body that focuses on creating livelihoods for the poor.

Since the project began in 2014, more than 1700 people working in recycling jobs, along with their families, have benefited from transformed working environments, training, education and career opportunities.

Support for the recycling organisations has been given through workshops, the provision of raw materials and donations of machinery.

Alvaro Henao, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Colombia, said: “We are proud to receive this award and be recognised for our commitment to the entrepreneurs who contribute to waste collection across Colombia. 

“As the largest cardboard and paper recycler in Colombia we know that their role is fundamental for the environment, because currently only 17% of the 12 million tonnes of solid waste produced in Colombia is recycled.”

Designing products that are easily recycled and improving the collection of waste through its recycling facilities is one of the cornerstones of Smurfit Kappa’s Better Planet Packaging initiative.