Weyerhaeuser announces new sustainability strategy

Weyerhaeuser Company has announced the launch of a new sustainability strategy that maps out ambitious commitments and goals for the next decade and beyond. Building on a solid foundation in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and strong governance, this new strategy demonstrates that sustainability is fully integrated into the company’s day-to-day work, and it also intensifies Weyerhaeuser’s focus in three critical challenge areas: contributing to climate change solutions, helping provide sustainable homes for everyone, and helping rural communities thrive.

“We believe our company has a unique and compelling contribution to make in the world,” said Devin Stockfish, president and CEO of Weyerhaeuser. “Our forests and wood products have an important role to play in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing carbon from the atmosphere. Our sustainable wood products — the ultimate green-building material — can help meet growing needs for affordable and sustainable housing. And as a company with significant operations in rural communities across North America, we have a powerful opportunity to help these communities thrive.”

Weyerhaeuser is committed to making tangible progress in these three areas by 2030 as part of its new 3 by 30 initiative. Some actions involve continuing and strengthening existing work. Others involve engaging new partnerships and stakeholders, and driving innovation in new areas, including:

1. Supporting the development of forest carbon markets and accounting, including committing to set a company-wide, science-based greenhouse gas reduction target that aligns with the goal of limiting global warming to less than 2°C.
2. Promoting the use of mass timber and other innovative wood-building materials, including helping to ensure sustainable building standards and tools include science-based assessments of wood products.
3. Improving our overall Giving Fund strategy by implementing a community resource assessment process that supports community strengths and identifies greatest needs for investment.

“We know we can’t solve these challenges alone, but we also know our vast forests and the essential products we make put us in a tremendous position to make a real difference,” Stockfish said. “If we’re able to move the dial in these areas over the next decade, we’ll provide enormous value not just to Weyerhaeuser, but to people, communities and ecosystems around the planet.”

This new strategy supports the company’s vision to become the world’s premier timber, land, and forest products company, and it also aligns with the global priorities of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The strategy also addresses the broad — and vital — social impact of company policies, including ensuring the safety of employees, focusing on people development, building a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture, and supporting local communities.

“The past couple of months have brought into even sharper focus the urgency for companies to drive positive change and influence beyond their immediate operational footprints,” Stockfish said. “Our new strategy reflects our commitment to meet that challenge, from keeping our employees safe through the COVID-19 pandemic to creating a truly inclusive environment for our people.”