DS Smith Honored with AF&PA Sustainability Award for Innovative Interpreters Program

DS Smith Packaging is proud to announce that its Lebanon Indiana Interpreters Program has been recognized with a prestigious Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 Sustainability Award from the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA). 

This award honors outstanding sustainability programs and initiatives within the paper and wood products manufacturing industry. DS Smith’s Interpreters Program was selected for its innovate approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), specifically addressing language barriers and expanding employment opportunities for Hispanic workers.

“DS Smith is committed to creating a more sustainable future, not only through our products but also through our people,” said Monica Anderson, Chief HR Officer at DS Smith. “The Interpreters Program has been instrumental in breaking down language barriers and empowering our Hispanic workforce. By providing interpreter services on-site, we’ve been able to attract and retain skilled workers, fostering both a more inclusive work environment and delivering outstanding results to our customers through our operational excellence.”

The program has led to a significant increase in the Hispanic workforce at the Lebanon facility, from 6% to 42%. This initiative demonstrates DS Smith’s dedication to creating a more equitable workplace, while also contributing to the sustainability of the local community.