According to a release, Sonoco Products’ sourcing certification indicates the company maintains a formal tracking system to record the possession and transfer of wood fiber from its origin to its end use, including the manufacturing, production and processing stages.

The certification validates Sonoco's sustainable fiber sourcing practices and its overall commitment to environmental stewardship. It also complements the chain-of-custody certifications Sonoco achieved in 2008 at its 11 North American uncoated recycled paperboard mills and five recycled rigid paper container plants. These plants and mills received certifications to the SFI standard and to the Program for the Endorsement of Fiber Certification (PEFC). In addition, Forest Stewardship Council certification was issued by the Rainforest Alliance SmartWood Program.

"We have a long history of sustainability, and this latest certification is just another example of how we are continuing each day to strengthen our environmental commitment," says Jim Bowen, senior vice president of Sonoco’s Primary Materials Group.

"Consumers are more interested than ever in knowing the products they’re purchasing are contributing to a sustainable future. The certification of our #10 machine provides assurances to consumers and to our customers that we're doing things the right way by effectively implementing the highest environmental standards possible in our business and operating practices."

Specific standards must be met by companies seeking certification. These standards require regular internal audits, management reviews and annual audits conducted by an independent organization. The standards also require that specific procedures be implemented so the flow of fiber through the manufacturing process is properly tracked and recorded.