Fashion has a far-reaching impact on society, influencing global trends, individuals, and communities. Operating in a social context driven by customer needs, the industry is increasingly shaped by eco-conscious consumers who prioritise sustainable textiles. Sustainable textiles offer solutions to environmental challenges such as textile waste, chemical pollution from manufacturing processes, and emissions generated by the fashion industry.

However, another crucial aspect to consider is the social impact of fashion. Human capital is involved at all levels of the value chain, from creativity and design to the production of materials. Ethically sourced materials not only provide brands with assurances of profitability but also positively affect lives and the environment.

Collectively, we must strive for a shared goal: to build a harmonious balance that meets our needs today while preserving resources for future generations.

How We Contribute

Our business is rooted in the woodfibre value chain, which is integral to the manufacture of Verve. Over time, our expertise and vision have enabled us to share this value with neighbouring communities through collaboration and partnerships.

Sappi is committed to using resources such as land, energy, and water in a sustainable manner. We continually strive to minimise our impact by implementing profitable, eco-friendly strategies that deliver real social benefits and economic value.

Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. To guide our actions, we have adopted the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework for achieving a positive and lasting impact.

Positive Social Impact through Sappi Khulisa

Established in 1983, the Sappi Khulisa tree-farming initiative focuses on supporting small-scale individual growers across the entire value chain, including community projects and contractors. This programme not only creates shared value but also uplifts rural communities.

Through Sappi Khulisa, small growers are empowered to build sustainable businesses and earn a decent income, while Sappi ensures a reliable supply of quality fibre for the future. The initiative aims not only to secure and increase this fibre supply but also to transform small-scale growers and their contractors into self-reliant, sustainable timber businesses.

How It Works

The programme is structured to engage growers who allocate their land for planting eucalyptus trees, which are used in the production of Verve. Sappi supports these growers by providing sponsored seedlings, technical advice, training, loans, and guaranteed access to the market. All seedlings supplied are cultivated in our nurseries to ensure that only the best quality genetic material is planted.

By planting these tree seedlings, Khulisa participants are not just growing trees—they are cultivating skills, building enterprises, strengthening communities, and creating a brighter future.

In 2023, the Khulisa tree-farming initiative proudly celebrated its 40th anniversary, involving 4,143 growers who manage a total of 37,269 hectares. Since 1995, over 5,187,806 tons of timber have been purchased from these growers. The programme’s reach spans the far north of KwaZulu-Natal and includes the provinces of Mpumalanga and Eastern Cape in Southern Africa, demonstrating its remarkable value and impact.

Why It Matters

Sappi Verve not only unlocks the potential of renewable resources but also nurtures human capital. Guided by our commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are constantly challenged to find innovative and creative ways to make each day more sustainable.

Our success relies on balancing forestry activities with the management of biodiversity, ecosystem services, climate change, and the well-being of thriving communities. We view our social impact journey as one of continuous improvement and evolution. Partnering proactively to create shared value, we are unlocking opportunities for our customers and communities, meeting the needs of a growing and evolving society. Using our expertise, we are building a sustainable future grounded in the principles of prosperity, planet, and people.