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PAPER EXCELLENCE ANNOUNCES CROFTON PAPER MILL CURTAILMENT

domtarcom on September 7, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence today announced a production curtailment at its Crofton paper facility.

The curtailment will coincide with scheduled annual maintenance of key utility assets. The outage will reduce the site exposure to higher cost energy through this period. The curtailment will commence September 10th, 2022 and is expected to last approximately two weeks. It is estimated that approximately 95 employees will be affected with temporary layoff notices.

We remain committed to our impacted employees and servicing our paper customers’ needs during this curtailment.  

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp Celebrates 30 Years in Operation

domtarcom on September 7, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Along with members of the community, provincial and federal elected representatives, staff at Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp mill (MLMP) and Paper Excellence Canada today celebrated 30 years of the pulp mill being in operation. The mill is located just east of Meadow Lake and has been operational since 1992.

MLMP was the first mill Paper Excellence Canada acquired in 2007. The mill employs over 200 full-time employees, creates approximately 1,300 direct and indirect jobs, and creates approximately $470 million in economic activity annually.

”Today is a great day for Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp and Paper Excellence, as we celebrate 30 years of the mill being in operation,” said Stew Gibson, Chief Operating Officer for Paper Excellence Canada. “We are proud that our employees have made the pulp mill a staple in the Meadow Lake community and northern Saskatchewan for so long, and recognize everything the mill contributes to improve the quality of life for so many.”  

“Congratulations to all the leadership and staff at Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp on 30 years of operation,” MLA for Meadow Lake Jeremy Harrison said. “Our government will continue to support the forestry sector as part of our growing economy and I look forward to the next 30 years of success for Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp.”

MLMP also marked the 30th anniversary by celebrating several employees at the mill who have worked there for 30+ years, including Rob Goozee, General Manager at the mill.

“It’s been great to work at the mill since it opened in 1992,” said Goozee. “Lots of people have come and gone, but the mill remains and that’s a testament to the strength of the community that we live in and industry that we work in.”

MLMP produces approximately 400,000 tonnes of bleached chemi-thermal mechanical pulp (BCTMP) annually. BCTMP is used to make a variety of products from tissue and paper towel to food and board packaging.

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Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Doug Routley, Parliamentary Secretary for Forests, visits Catalyst Crofton to see $5.85 million of CleanBC funding at work

domtarcom on June 3, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence is pleased to welcome Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo – North Cowichan and Parliamentary Secretary for Forests to its Catalyst Crofton mill today to see how the recently awarded $5.85 million of CleanBC funding will impact the operation.

The CleanBC Industry Fund is a provincial government program that invests a portion of government’s carbon tax revenues into businesses working on emission reduction projects.

Catalyst Crofton’s GHG emission reduction project is a combination of three process improvements that will result in a significant reduction in total steam energy demand, resulting in decreased natural gas usage at the mill. The three areas of focus for this project are: 

  1. Re-engineering an unused diffusion washer with state-of-the-art diffusion washing technology to maximize the black liquor fuel quality while using less steam energy.
  2. Investing in fibre filter equipment to remove valuable wood fibre from the black liquor fuel and increase the efficiency of the evaporation process.
  3. Automate the cleaning process of Evaporator #3 to improve steam efficiency through reduced evaporator downtime.

“The B.C. government’s new vision for the forest sector is one where all British Columbians benefit from this precious resource while protecting the environment and mitigating climate change,” said Doug Routley, Parliamentary Secretary for Forests. “Paper Excellence is showing leadership by working with their partners to address climate change while protecting good paying, family supporting jobs in our community.”

“We’re very appreciative for the ongoing support that Doug has extended and that he could join us today and learn about the investment’s the BC government is helping us make at Catalyst Crofton,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications. “These upgrades will reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and those of BC, while helping us remain more globally competitive as we continue to produce the renewable and sustainable forest products that our world needs.”

Crofton already has an enviable carbon reduction record having reduced its carbon footprint by over 70% since the Kyoto Accord in 1990. This CleanBC project will further reduce the mill’s GHG emissions by another 17% or about 32,000 tonnes of C02e per year by reducing the operation of the mill’s natural gas power boiler. This reduction is the equivalent of removing 7,000 cars from the road permanently.

Doug Routley, Parliamentary Secretary for Forests, visited Catalyst Crofton on June 3, 2022 to see $5.85 million of CleanBC funding at work. Left to right: Krista Cuddy, Deputy General Manager; Courtney Malo, Executive Assistant; Carlo Dal Monte, Vice President, Energy and Business Development; Stew Gibson, Chief Operating Officer; Doug Routley, Parliamentary Secretary for Forests; Graham Kissack, Vice President, EH&S and Corporate Communications; Terry Lalari, Vice President, Government Relations.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

From Drought to Inundation

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

Practices and Perspectives

2021 was a year of mind-boggling extremes in British Columbia, with seasonal temperatures swinging across a range as wide as 75°C , and with record-breaking fall rains in between that caused widespread flooding.

For our coastal BC mills, the unprecedented weather seriously strained effluent treatment systems.

Operators at Port Alberni were challenged in June (when an all-time high temperature record was set) to prevent over-heating of aeration blowers that are critical for effluent treatment; and then again in September by intense rains that dramatically increased the surface runoff into its treatment facility. Extensive excess pumping and treatment capacity was instrumental in avoiding any non-compliances.

Both Crofton and Howe Sound experienced similar rain extremes, creating a need for difficult operational judgment calls. For example, while shutting down a mill will cut off process effluent, it can also create a short-term surge that makes matters worse.

At Crofton, the mill was fortuitously on a temporary shutdown at the time of the heaviest rainfall, making it easier to manage. Howe Sound, however, had a non-compliance on effluent pH levels on an occasion when more than 20 mm of rain fell within a single hour.

Work has been undertaken across these mills to optimize cooling, pumping, storage and other operational capacities, in anticipation of extremes becoming more commonplace in the years ahead.

Achieving 100% Utilization

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

PRACTICES AND PERSPECTIVES

Dorian Uzzell, President of Wahkash Contracting, talks about the specialized salvage operations on northern Vancouver Island that are helping maximize usage of harvested forest fibre and supplying fibre to Atli Chip Limited Partnership, our newest Indigenous business partnership.

Turning Towards Paper Alternatives

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

PRACTICES AND PERSPECTIVES

Kenny Goswami, E.I.T. Process Engineer at Catalyst Port Alberni, explains how the need for lower-impact packaging is one factor that gives him, as a recent participant in our Engineer in Training Program, confidence in his future in the pulp and paper industry.

An Extra Set of Eyes Out There

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

PRACTICES AND PERSPECTIVES

Barry Touzin, PPWC Local 15 – Skookumchuck Pulp and Joint Safety Committee Co-Chair, explains how trained safety captains drawn from the unionized workforce at the Skookumchuck mill are one of the broad-based efforts to achieve better safety outcomes.

Outstanding Safety Performance at Surrey Distribution Centre

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

Practices and Perspectives

The last lost-time injury at Paper Excellence’s Surrey Distribution Centre (SDC) was so long ago that it would be at least a year-and-half later before the word “COVID” became part of our daily lexicon.

That injury in 2018 was an unfortunately severe one. But the fact that there have been no lost-time injuries since is an impressive achievement. And while there’s never a safety silver bullet, this can likely be credited to a focus on a few key practices.

Although they have had to be deferred due to pandemic distancing requirements, SDC typically holds monthly all-employee safety meetings, with presentations and discussions of risk factors and incidents.

Pre-shift safety discussions are also consistently held, in part to focus attention on timely considerations such as weather and other seasonal factors. And all employees are encouraged to formally identify any hazards they observe.

A union-chaired joint safety committee has been empowered with the resources to effectively engage in tasks such as workplace inspections and incident and near-miss investigations, and there is a rigorous focus on reporting back on investigation results and corrective actions.

SDC also had a complete absence of any incidents requiring medical attention in 2021.

10 Crucial Weeks in the Life of 25,000 Salmon

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

Practices and Perspectives

To successfully help nearly 25,000 hatchery coho salmon fry to mature over the course of a summer, you need both large-capacity tanks and a reliable supply of cool water.

Our Howe Sound mill happens to have both (it used to have an on-site hatchery). So when the Sunshine Coast Salmonid Enhancement Society had difficulties with water availability and temperatures at its nearby Chapman Creek Hatchery, Paper Excellence was a natural partner for it to turn to.

In late June, with creek temperatures rapidly climbing past 15°C, the Society transferred the fish to the mill, where much cooler water was available from Rainy River. And although water supply became tight over the summer at the mill too, careful management ensured sufficiency for all needs. The salmon stayed at Howe Sound for about 10 weeks, during which they matured from roughly 1.5 to 3.75 grams.

This avoided the risk of having to release them at an early stage from the hatchery, which significantly lowers their survival rate. The fish were transferred back to the hatchery at the end of August, and were due for release into Chapman Creek in spring 2022.

In the meantime, the Society has increased its well-based water supply, to give it more water-management latitude. But the “salmon summer camp” at Howe Sound mill was crucial to continuity of operations in 2021.

Flames and Floods Create Logistics Bottlenecks

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

Practices and Perspectives

Transportation disruptions in British Columbia were so severe that at one point in late 2021 that Metro Vancouver – home to some 2.5 million people – was briefly cut off from any road connection with the rest of Canada due to flooding.

Rail operations in various parts of the province were also impacted, as they had been earlier in the year during large wildfires. And this was on top of pre-existing port congestion and shipping-pattern disruptions caused by the pandemic.

It amounted to major challenges for Paper Excellence, which continued in 2022. There were delays in getting raw materials to mills, and inventories climbed as it became harder and more expensive to get products to customers.

Supply-chain and weather challenges at times exacerbated each other. Lack of chips resulted in a sudden December production halt at Port Alberni, without time for the usual scope of pre-shut down procedures. Then unusually low temperatures caused equipment freeze-ups that delayed the re-start even when chips were available.

But ingenuity and exceptional effort helped moderate the impacts, particularly for customers. This involved using multiple transportation carriers and modes, and creative routing to get product to them.

Some pulp from Skookumchuck, for example, was sent by rail to the Surrey Distribution Centre, put on empty barges going back to the Crofton mill, and then loaded onto break bulk ships at Crofton’s deep sea port. This was a particularly useful work-around when shipping container capacity was at a premium.

You Just Gotta Do That

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

PRACTICES AND PERSPECTIVES

Larry Cross, a recently retired Environment Manager at our Catalyst Port Alberni, explains how 40+ years ago an environmental management role at a mill could be a lonely undertaking. But how over the decades, everyone has come on board and it’s a team effort now.

A Circle of Inherent Sustainability

domtarcom on May 31, 2022

PRACTICES AND PERSPECTIVES

Laura Thompson, MS and PhD, Principal at 4 Minutes LLC Consulting, explains how the paper industry stands apart from many others as a circular solution, and is an industry that is constantly feeding back into its own supply chain

Harnessing Solar Power at Resolute’s Florida Tissue Operations

domtarcom on May 17, 2022

At Resolute, we continue to deliver on our strong commitment to climate change mitigation and green energy projects that optimize the use of renewables. Our two Florida tissue mills – Sanford and Hialeah – are taking advantage of the Sunshine State’s favorable climate to participate in SolarTogether™, a community program offered by Florida Power & Lighting (FPL) that helps local homes and businesses access emissions-free energy.

FPL operates dozens of solar energy centers across the state, increasing the use of solar power on the energy grid and helping to offset the use of other non-renewable energy resources.

Resolute began participating in SolarTogether in July 2021. We anticipate a total annual reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of about 7,000 metric tons (7,716 short tons) of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) in 2022 for our two Florida tissue mills. “This innovative program is helping Resolute achieve our sustainability targets,” said Patrice Minguez, president of Resolute Tissue. “Not only are we purchasing green energy to power our Florida operations, we are proud to support Florida’s clean energy revolution.”

Resolute stewards renewable, sustainable, fossil-free resources that play an important role in fighting climate change. To learn more about Resolute’s energy and climate initiatives, visit our website.

View FPL’s video: Creating a Brighter Future

Youth Futures Education Fund receives $20,000 of Paper Excellence’s $50,000 United Way donation

domtarcom on April 21, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence announced today a $50,000 donation to United Way, $20,000 of which is being awarded to the Youth Futures Education Fund.

Youth Futures Education Fund provides low-barrier access to funds to support living expenses to youth who have aged out of the foster care system and are attending a post-secondary institution on a tuition waiver. The Fund is guided by an Advisory Committee, held at the Vancouver Foundation, and is administered by United Way British Columbia.

“Former youth in care have shown determination, resiliency, and strength when it comes to pursuing post-secondary education. To help them share their knowledge, life experience and skills with our communities, they also need financial support,” said Mike McKnight, President & CEO, United Way British Columbia. “United Way is proud to be part of the Youth Futures Education Fund, a unique partnership working to ensure all young people have access to post-secondary education for a bright future for all.”  

“In Paper Excellence’s Mission Statement, it states that we will improve the well-being of the communities in which we operate,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications. “We believe that supporting young people during such an important moment in their lives—transitioning out of the foster care system and into post-secondary education—will make a lasting impact both for those young people and our community as a whole.”

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

About Youth Futures Education Fund
The Youth Futures Education Fund was collaboratively established by: Coast Capital, The Province of British Columbia, and the Office of the Representative for Children and Youth. The Youth Futures Education Fund is guided by an Advisory Committee, held at the Vancouver Foundation and is administered by United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland and Central & Northern Vancouver Island. Youth Futures Education Fund – Helping youth achieve their potential.

About United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland and Central & Northern Vancouver Island
United Way supports healthy, caring and inclusive communities by strengthening vital connections that support people in need. Representing the six regions of Central and Northern Vancouver Island, East Kootenay, Lower Mainland, Southern Interior, Thompson Nicola Cariboo, and Trail and District, our organization serves a population of more than 4 million people, with a focus on kids and youth, seniors, poverty, mental health and food security.https://uwbc.ca/

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Pinder Rehal, Senior Communications Specialist | pinderr@uwbc.ca | | Direct: 604.969.8637

United Way of Saskatoon & Area receives $15,000 of Paper Excellence’s $50,000 United Way donation

domtarcom on April 21, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence announced today a $50,000 donation to United Way, $15,000 of which is being awarded to United Way of Saskatoon & Area.

This gift will be divided between both of Paper Excellence’s mill locations in Saskatchewan. A $10,000 donation to the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Prince Albert (BBBS) mentorship program will help match children between the ages of 6-16 with a professionally screened and trained volunteer mentor. And a $5,000 donation to the Meadow Lake Early Childhood Intervention Program (ECIP) will replace a dangerous wheelchair ramp in ECIP main facility.

“United Way of Saskatoon & Area’s impact far exceeds the city limits of Saskatoon. We are proud to continue to support our northern communities in Saskatchewan with this generous gift.” said Sheri Benson, CEO, United Way of Saskatoon & Area. ”Paper Excellence’s donation will ensure families are equipped with the resources and support needed to help improve the lives of young children in the communities of Prince Albert and Meadow Lake.”  

“In Paper Excellence’s Mission Statement, it states that we will improve the well-being of the communities in which we operate,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications. “We believe these donations that will support children seeking a mentor and replace a dangerous wheelchair ramp at an early childhood intervention facility will make a lasting difference for the people directly affected as well as the broader community.”

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

United Way of Saskatoon and area aims to improve lives and build community through acts of local love that include, engaging and mobilizing community dollars, strengthening the network of services and capacity of non-profits, influencing public attitudes, systems and policies and addressing underlying causes affecting community members in the Saskatoon area.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Paige Gignac, Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications | & pgignac@unitedwaysaskatoon | | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

United Way of Pictou County receives $15,000 of Paper Excellence’s $50,000 United Way donation

domtarcom on April 21, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] –Paper Excellence announced today a $50,000 donation to United Way, $15,000 of which is being awarded to United Way of Pictou County.

The United Way of Pictou County partners with local programs and services that address and alleviate barriers that children and youth are facing in their community—the child poverty rate in Pictou County is over 26%.

“Because of Paper Excellence’s generous support, our United Way can re-invest these dollars back into vital youth focused community programs in Pictou County. We are very thankful for their kind donation,” said Ellen Fanning, Executive Director of the United Way of Pictou County. “This gift will help support local programs and services that directly influence positive change in the lives of thousands of our youth”  

“In Paper Excellence’s Mission Statement, it states that we will improve the well-being of the communities in which we operate,” said Sasha Irving, Vice President, Corporate Affairs. “We believe that supporting children and youth positively impacts both those young people and our community as a whole”.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Together with our funded agencies, volunteers and partners, United Way Pictou County works collaboratively to bring people together to make positive and sustainable impacts on our community. We envision a community where Pictou County neighborhoods are healthy, thriving, supportive and safe. We will continue to work hard so that everyone has access to resources that support them in reaching their full potential.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Hupacasath First Nation signs Memorandum of Understanding with Catalyst Paper

domtarcom on April 14, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Hupacasath First Nation and Catalyst Paper, a Paper Excellence company, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This MOU sets out the intentions of both parties to build a collaborative relationship together.

“Signing this MOU is about change. It’s about all of us at Paper Excellence, rightfully recognizing and respecting the aboriginal rights of the Hupacasath Nation and forging a relationship that allows us to grow together as partners into the future. It’s change that is long overdue. It’s change that is needed. And it’s change that we look forward to,” said Walter Tarnowsky, General Manager, Catalyst Port Alberni.

“The Hupacasath Nation is pleased to take this important first step in building a mutually beneficial relationship with the Port Alberni mill,” said Chief Councillor Brandy Lauder. “Our people have been in this valley since time immemorial and we value meaningful partnerships with the forest industry in our territory.”  

Paper Excellence understands the importance of being good neighbours and greatly values its relationships with Indigenous communities. Paper Excellence’s approach is to build long-term high value partnerships with communities in its operating areas and where practicable to align its vision, values and corporate policies with local Indigenous Peoples. Towards this commitment, Paper Excellence is focused on building beneficial business partnerships and supporting community investment with initiatives that focus on business capacity, education, health and culture, and sustainability projects.

Walter Tarnowksy (left), General Manager at Catalyst Port Alberni, shaking hands with Chief Councillor Brandy Lauder (right), after signing an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Hupacasath First Nation and Catalyst Paper, a Paper Excellence company.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Paper Excellence donates $50,000 to College of the Rockies for scholarship program

domtarcom on March 22, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] –Paper Excellence announced today that it is donating $50,000 to the College of the Rockies to create a Paper Excellence student awards scholarship program. Over the next five years, ten $1,000 scholarship awards will be distributed each year.

Paper Excellence operates Skookumchuck Pulp mill which is located just north of Cranbrook and Kimberley in the East Kootenays. The awards are meant to encourage and recognize local youth with good academic achievement in high school who are enrolled in programs related to the operation of a pulp mill such as heavy-duty equipment technician, millwright, welder or engineer. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate a strong work ethic and a positive attitude, and/or financial need.

“We state in our Core Values that we are an economic pillar and a partner in our operating communities,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety, and Corporate Communications. “Investing in young people and supporting the development of the local workforce lets us live that value by contributing to local prosperity and well-being through education. The College of the Rockies is well placed to provide this training with seven campuses in the region. It serves a regional population of close to 83,000 people and provides instruction to approximately 2100 full-time equivalent (FTE) students.”  

“Generous contributions from donors like Paper Excellence are a pillar of our scholarship and bursary program,” said Deb Carty, College of the Rockies’ Vice President External Relations. “The Paper Excellence Scholarship is sure to have a tremendous positive impact on many College of the Rockies students over the next five years.”

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Paper Excellence donates $50,000 to Vancouver Island University for scholarship program

domtarcom on March 22, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence announced today that it is donating $50,000 to Vancouver Island University (VIU) to create a Paper Excellence student awards scholarship program. Over the next five years, ten $1,000 scholarship awards will be distributed each year.

Paper Excellence operates two mills on Vancouver Island­—Catalyst Crofton and Catalyst Port Alberni—and one mill on the Sunshine Coast—Howe Sound Pulp & Paper. The awards are meant to encourage and recognize Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast youth. They will be available to students with a demonstrated strong work ethic and a positive attitude who have enrolled in programs related to the operation of a pulp mill such as heavy mechanical trades, power engineering, heavy equipment operator or welding.

“As we continue to build our business strategy for our coastal operations, we know it’s important to invest in the community,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety, and Corporate Communications. “Investing in young people and supporting the development of the local workforce makes sense for us. Vancouver Island University is well placed to provide this training with four campuses on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast and a variety of relevant programs on offer.”  

“This generous donation from Paper Excellence means 50 VIU students will be able to attend classes with fewer financial worries and transition into high-demand careers in the trades,” said Glynis Steen, Dean of Trades and Applied Technology. “Once they graduate, that’s dozens of skilled tradespeople giving back in our communities and strengthening British Columbia’s economy.”

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Regular seasonal operation of the Cowichan Lake weir to begin in early April

domtarcom on March 21, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – In early April, Catalyst Crofton, a Paper Excellence company, will resume regular seasonal operation the Cowichan Lake weir (dam) that regulates water flow out of Cowichan Lake.

Once operating, the weir operation will gradually reduce water flow from the lake to the river in order to have enough extra water in the lake to achieve the target river flow during the dry summer months.

Catalyst Crofton operates the weir under the direction of the provincial government which sets the target river flow with guidance provided by fish and fish habitat stewards including Fisheries and Oceans Canada.  

Once the weir is mechanically and electrically confirmed to be ready for another control season, the boat lock gates will be lowered, and boater traffic must navigate from lake and river with assistance from Boat Lock operator. While the weir boat lock is operated 24 hours per day during control season, boat passage through the locks is intended to be a daylight activity. Adjustments to river flow are also made mostly during the day shift.

The monitoring and regulation of Cowichan Lake water levels and flow releases is part of the provincial government’s ongoing commitment to maintain stream flows for all stakeholders.

Lake level, river flow and snowpack data are available under Cowichan Water Management Information at the bottom of the page here:
https://paperexcellence.com/mill-location/crofton/

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For further information, please contact:
David Johnson
Licensed Senior Regional Specialist
Water and Dam Safety, Government of British Columbia
250-739-8239

Brian Houle
Manager, Environment
Catalyst Crofton
250-246-6236

Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Paper Excellence donates $50,000 to Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund

domtarcom on March 8, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] –Paper Excellence announced today its $50,000 donation to the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund operated by Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business (CCAB).

The Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund (IWEF) provides grants to Indigenous women-owned businesses who may lack access to conventional financing. For a business to qualify for the program, it must be at least 51% owned and controlled by an Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) woman and be registered in Canada.

“Paper Excellence is focused on building beneficial business partnerships and supporting community investment with initiatives that focus on business capacity, education, health and culture, and sustainability projects,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety, and Corporate Communications. “Thanks to the recent research (Oct 2021) carried out by our partners at CCAB, we know that Indigenous women entrepreneurs across Canada have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, and we see stepping up and supporting these economic initiatives as one way to live out our Commitment to Indigenous Peoples.”  

“We are grateful to Paper Excellence for their support and commitment to Indigenous women in business through an investment in the IWEF program,” said CCAB President and CEO, Tabatha Bull. “Supporting economic initiatives for Indigenous women and entrepreneurs is a great step toward reconciliation.”

The CCAB positions Indigenous business at the focal point for strengthening Indigenous communities, promoting progressive and prosperous relationships, and growing a new economy based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. Successful applicants of the IWEF receive a Certified Aboriginal Business membership during the first year of their grant that allows the business to participate in the Aboriginal Procurement Marketplace as well as valuable networking events.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Resolute Racers

domtarcom on March 8, 2022

Resolute employees are getting into the competitive spirit, participating in several high-octane, endurance-testing events.

Jerome Bareth gives his all at work, where he manages Continuous Improvement for Resolute’s Hialeah and Orlando (Florida) and Calhoun (Tennessee) tissue mills. But he keeps plenty of gas in the tank for another activity he’s passionate about: endurance competitions! A world-class Ultraman triathlete who has traveled the globe to take part in competitions, Jerome’s most recent event was Ultraman Florida, which took place on the weekend of February 11. What’s an Ultraman competition? A three day triathlon consisting of a 6.2 mile (9.9 km) open water swim, a 263 mile (423 km) bike ride, and a 52.4 mile (84.3 km) ultra-marathon run. Jerome finished this competition third in the male category and fourth overall, proudly sponsored by Resolute Tissue.

  • © Jennifer Pahls
  • © Jennifer Pahls

Jerome’s enthusiasm has proved contagious – he has recruited a number of his colleagues to join him for upcoming endurance events. Clash Miami takes place on the weekend of March 11. Jerome will enter the middle distance triathlon event, while his teammates compete in the relays.

And in April, another team of Resolute Tissue employees will participate in the Deviant Wolfe Adventure Race, ending in Sanford, Florida. The competitors must work as a team, and will need to use their trekking, biking, paddling, navigation and orienteering skills.

Kudos to these gutsy, goal-driven competitors for getting involved in community life, contributing to a spirit of fun and camaraderie on the job, and reminding us just how many ways there are to get active!

Introducing Harmony Paper Towels & Bath Tissue

domtarcom on March 2, 2022

With its perfect combination of softness and strength, Harmony’s line of retail bath tissue and towel brings a great blend of premium quality and value to your shelves. Backed by Resolute’s vertically integrated production, this eye-catching brand delivers consistent industry-leading performance in every sheet.
The Harmony line offers outstanding quality, performance and value that gets noticed in store and builds loyalty at home.

• Colorful Harmony packaging captures shoppers’ attention
• Great consumer value that enhances retail margins
• Includes offerings made with Resolute Tissue’s premium structured paper grade

Paper Excellence Announces Meadow Lake Production Slowdown Due To Lack of Railway Service

domtarcom on February 11, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence today announced an indefinite production slowdown of its Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan BCTMP mill due to repeated lack of railway service.

Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp Inc., which employs 190 people and infuses over $1 million daily into Canada’s economy, is dependent on CN Rail, which has failed to transport Meadow Lake’s pulp production to ports for months. The mill has exhausted local storage facilities.

“While we remain committed to servicing our customers’ needs during this slowdown, we are extremely concerned about this railway situation and hope that it can be resolved soon,” said Stew Gibson, Vice President, Operations and Logistics. Paper Excellence plans to return the mill to full production once reliable railway service is reestablished. 

To learn more about Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp Inc., watch the mill video on YouTube.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Paper Excellence receives $8.6 million in funding from CleanBC

domtarcom on February 1, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence is pleased to have received $8.6 million of the more than $70 million in provincial funding announced by the CleanBC Industry Fund yesterday.

CleanBC Industry Fund is a provincial government program that invests a portion of government’s carbon tax revenues into businesses working on emission reduction projects. This round of funding is expected to reduce emissions by 4.6 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent over the next decade.

“This funding is being invested at four of our BC mills into projects that will reduce the mills’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve efficiency,” said Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety, and Corporate Communications. “Programs like the CleanBC Industry Fund are helping industry achieve British Columbia’s ambition for a low carbon future.”

The four mills—Catalyst Crofton, Catalyst Port Alberni, Howe Sound Pulp & Paper, Skookumchuck Pulp—employ more than 1,500 people in rural BC and make an economic contribution of $2.25 billion annually.

“Separate from the economic impact these mills have in their local communities, our products are spearheading carbon reduction every day,” said Kissack. “Our paper and pulp products are made from a renewable resource that often displace existing plastic products.”

Quotes:

Katrine Conroy, Minister for Forest, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development and MLA for Kootenay West
“People across the Kootenays are passionate about tackling climate change and reducing our emissions,” said Minister Conroy. “After seeing the impacts of climate change first-hand over the last year, these projects are very timely for our communities. I’m really glad that Skookumchuk Pulp is working with our government to move this project forward, helping us all reduce our emissions and breathe a little easier.”

Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid-Island – Pacific Rim
“We all need to do our part to reduce emissions and slow the progress of climate change, including our industry partners,” said MLA Osborne. “With this investment from our government’s CleanBC Industry Fund, Catalyst will be able to reduce their emissions significantly, the equivalent of taking over 500 cars off the road per year.”

Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo – North Cowichan
After the extreme weather we have seen in the past year, it’s more clear than ever that we need to focus on addressing climate change,” said MLA Routley. “I am grateful for the leadership that local industry partners have shown in addressing climate change while continuing to provide good paying, family supporting jobs in our community. Our government is committed to working with industry through our CleanBC program to transition operations so that workers are not displaced in the process, and the funding announced today reflects this commitment.”

Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River – Sunshine Coast
People on the Sunshine Coast are committed to doing their part to reduce emissions, and that includes our industries,” said MLA Simons. “These projects at the Port Mellon mill will have the same effect as taking over 2,900 cars off the road per year and help get us closer to our climate goals.”

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991

Pinder Rehal, Senior Communications Specialist | pinderr@uwbc.ca | | Direct: 604.969.8637

Paper Excellence partners with Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies to create $50,000 trades scholarship fund

domtarcom on January 26, 2022

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Paper Excellence today announced it has partnered with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) to create a $50,000 scholarship fund. The scholarship fund will provide two $5,000 awards annually to students of self-declared Indigenous ancestry (First Nations, Inuit, or Metis) who are enrolled full-time in a Trades and Industrial diploma or apprenticeship level program at any SIIT campus or community-based location.

The scholarship fund is supported by the Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship (SIOS) program, which will match Paper Excellence’s original donation of $25,000 to reach a total of $50,000. SIOS is an initiative of the Ministry of Advanced Education that matches funds raised by post-secondary institutions through private sector and community-based partners.

“It’s our pleasure to work with SIIT to create this scholarship, especially as our company looks to increase our operations in Saskatchewan with plans to restart the Prince Albert pulp mill in addition to our ongoing business at Meadow Lake Mechanical Pulp,” said Carlo Dal Monte, Vice President, Energy & Business Development.  

“Thank you, Paper Excellence, for your investment in our students and their futures,” said Riel Bellegarde, President and CEO of the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies. “These scholarships will help to alleviate financial barriers, and support students in pursuing their educational and career goals in the skilled trades.”

“Thank you to Paper Excellence for partnering with SIIT to support students, along with their efforts to strengthen our communities and economy,” Advanced Education Minister Gene Makowsky said. “These supports assist students as they achieve their educational goals, transition to employment and participate in the growth of the Saskatchewan economy”

Paper Excellence has made community investments in Saskatchewan over the past several months, including the creation of a $50,000 scholarship fund with Saskatchewan Polytechnic, a $12,000 donation to the NorthWest Community Lodge Association Inc., a $10,000 donation to Buckland Fire & Rescue, and a variety of local community donations including the Prince Albert YWCA, Prince Albert Food Bank, and S.H.A.R.E. Prince Albert.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991